Mumbai: At least 15 women from low-income backgrounds visit the outpatient department at Cama and Albless Hospital every month, seeking help for persistent pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, and unexplained infertility. Many of them are unaware that their symptoms could be signs of Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to severe pain and infertility.
One such woman, a 29-year-old tailoring assistant from Dharavi, struggled for six years with relentless pelvic pain and heavy periods. Despite private hospitals quoting over ₹1 lakh for laparoscopy, a procedure that could diagnose and treat Endometriosis, she couldn’t afford it. That’s when a neighbor informed her about Cama and Albless Hospital’s free laparoscopic services, which changed everything. In November 2024, she underwent surgery at no cost, and just a few months later, she conceived naturally.
Dr. Tushar, the medical superintendent of the hospital, said that Cama and Albless serves as a lifeline for many women, offering treatment, diagnosis, and hope for motherhood. The hospital has been providing free laparoscopic services for over five years, and though other government hospitals offer similar services, Cama focuses on Endometriosis treatment.
Dr. Tushar emphasized the hospital’s unique model: providing diagnosis and treatment in one visit, with most patients discharged within 2-3 days. On average, the hospital treats around 200 patients each year, many battling infertility due to Endometriosis.
A recent study co-authored by Dr. Tushar, published in the International Journal of Science and Research, explored the impact of these free services. Between October 2022 and October 2024, the study tracked 50 women aged 18-41, most of whom suffered from chronic pelvic pain, menstrual issues, or infertility. The study found that all 50 women were diagnosed with Endometriosis, with nearly half having severe (stage IV) disease.
The laparoscopic procedure provided immediate treatment for 80% of the patients, including cyst aspiration, cystectomy, and the removal of scar tissue, with most women discharged within three days. Dr. Tushar noted that Endometriosis is often underdiagnosed, and the hospital’s interventions highlight the effectiveness of laparoscopy for both diagnosis and treatment.
Cama and Albless Hospital’s free laparoscopic services continue to provide hope and relief to women who might otherwise go untreated.
