IWD: Half of young adults don't understand common gynaecological condition: Endometriosis

Helen Clarke

With only 50% of young adults in the UK familiar with endometriosis and many health practitioners including GPs and A&E doctors unable to recognise the symptoms - there are plenty of missed opportunities to stop suffering, curb the progress of the disease, and wasted NHS resources, says charity.

Despite being one of the most common gynaecological conditions, affecting one in ten women, the lack of awareness and education is leaving those with the condition facing an average of almost nine years for a diagnosis.

This had led to a loss of education and work productivity alongside impacting physical and mental health for many.

Charity Endometriosis UK is launching its Action Month in March - Endometriosis Explained - by calling on governments across the UK to improve their education in schools and healthcare setting.

"Without this education, those with the disease will continue to face challenges in accessing the right care at the right time." said the charity.

Emma Cox, CEO, Endometriosis UK

A survey for Endometriosis UK last year found that 78% of respondents who later went on to receive a diagnosis had experienced one or more doctor comments saying "you're making a fuss about nothing" or similar.

Emma Cox, CEO for Endometriosis UK said: "Such a common and often debilitating disease deserves the same level of recognition as conditions like diabetes and asthma.

"We hope governments across the UK will build on their commitments to support women’s health. Without this, the next generation of those with endometriosis will continue to be let down."

Endometriosis UK is the UK’s leading charity offering support for those with endometriosis as it believes that as those living with the disease have a hard enough time, they shouldn't have to battle for understanding and support too.

The organisation is calling on all UK governments to include menstrual health education as a compulsory part of the school curriculum, and ensure that every healthcare practitioner receives effective education on menstrual health conditions including endometriosis.

Endometriosis: a disease in which cells like those covering the inside of the uterus grow outside the uterus.