This conversation explores the need for new approaches to diagnose and treat endometriosis — a painful disease that impacts millions of women yet remains notoriously under-researched. We share one woman's story dealing with painful sex due to the disease followed by an interview with Dr. Idhaliz Flores, a six-time PhD, professor at Ponce Health Sciences University, and Chief Scientific Officer at Nura Health, who talks about her personal journey from patient to pioneering researcher for reshaping the options for care.

We can't stop talking about: 

• Endometriosis affecting an estimated 10% of women globally — yet it’s still commonly misdiagnosed or misunderstood. Symptoms like severe cramps, fatigue, and pain during sex are often normalized or dismissed for years.
• The only definitive diagnosis for endometriosis being laparoscopic surgery. That means many women go undiagnosed for years — often until infertility or severe complications arise.
• Endometriosis tissue has been found not only in the pelvis — but in the lungs and even the brain. It’s not just a reproductive condition; it's a full-body disease with systemic symptoms like inflammation and chronic fatigue.
• There’s no cure for endometriosis — and most treatments are hormonal contraceptives. These aren’t viable for everyone, especially for women trying to conceive, leaving many stuck choosing between pain relief and fertility.
• Blood-based biomarker tests for endometriosis are finally emerging. Dr. Flores and her team at Nura Health are working to enable diagnosis through a simple sample — no surgery required.

Connect with Idhaliz:
LinkedIn: Dr. Idhaliz Flores
Visit: Nura Health
Visit: The EMMA Consortium

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