Endometriosis Awareness Month – Let’s END the silence and talk about ENDO.
In the hope of rising awareness of Endometriosis during the Endometriosis Awareness Month, our health spotlight is on this painful health condition that affects one of our own.
What is Endometriosis (EN – DOH – MEE –TREE – OH – SIS)?
Endometriosis is a common condition that affects about one in 10 women. It is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of endometrium, which normally lines the uterus, is found in abnormal sites around the body. Most often though, endometriosis is found in the pelvis. These deposits can cause a number of symptoms such as pelvic pain and infertility. It is possible that you can have endometriosis and not have either of these problems. The degree of symptoms does not always indicate the damage the disease is causing. There is no direct evidence that lifestyle affects endometriosis; however, it is important to remain as healthy as possible. Hormone therapy such as the contraceptive pill or progestins may help to reduce pain and the severity of endometriosis. Surgery aims to diagnose and remove as many patches of endometriosis and adhesions as possible, to repair any damage caused and improve fertility. When recurrent endometriosis is at its worst, it may lead to chronic pelvic pain, impairing the quality of life.
My name is Nicole and I am the client experience co-coordinator at HCG. I have undergone 2 laparoscopic procedures since 2018 and have been on a long journey towards a diagnosis for 11 years. Endometriosis does not only put a toll on the physical health but also impacts the mental health of those affected. With more funding to go towards research we can look forward to a future with a cure for endometriosis, a shorter diagnosis time and a less invasive diagnostic processes and procedures.
Quick Facts:
- 1 in 10 women have endometriosis
- Millions suffer, few understand
- Endometriosis is underfunded and under researched
- Women can suffer up to a full decade waiting for a diagnosis
- Up to 50% of women with endometriosis have trouble becoming pregnant
- It’s not just a bad period.
- Endometriosis is seen as a taboo subject
- There is no cure
Our disease is invisible but we are not. Please join us in raising money for Endometriosis Australia by following the below link.