Endometriosis Awareness Month

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. It is an important time to raise awareness about this debilitating condition that affects 1 in 7 women by the age of 49 (that’s almost 1 million Australians!) 

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus and sheds during menstruation, implants and grows in other areas of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or lining of the pelvis. This often causes pain and impacts fertility. 

This tissue responds to hormonal fluctuations, thickening and shedding like the uterine lining, but when it grows outside the uterus, it cannot exit the body normally, which leads to inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation and can impact fertility. 

Endometriosis Australia is a nationally accredited charity dedicated to raising awareness, educating the public and funding research for endometriosis. Their website states that: 

“There is a significant delay in diagnosing endometriosis, with an average delay of 6.5 years. This delay is largely due to societal norms around menstrual health, which lead girls and *women to normalise symptoms. Additionally, healthcare providers sometimes dismiss or normalise symptoms when patients seek medical help.

Importance of early diagnosis:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as they reduce the long-term impacts of endometriosis, including the need for invasive and fertility treatments.

Impact beyond menstrual health: 

Endometriosis affects more than just menstrual health; it can profoundly impact every aspect of a *woman’s life, often without clear solutions. Raising awareness is essential to minimising diagnosis delays across all age groups.

Educating on menstrual health: 

Educating younger generations about menstrual health—what is normal and what is not—is critical to breaking the cycle of delayed diagnosis and its consequences for future generations (Ballard, K., Lowtan, K., Wright, J., 2006 & Dessole, M., Benedetto Melis, G., Angioni, S., 2012).

Visit the Endometriosis Australia website for more details or to participate in fundraising activities during March and beyond. 

If you experience menstrual pain, discomfort, or have any other concerns about your body, please consult your medical practitioner.  

Much love, UC x