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Endo Explained: Lifting the Lid on Endometriosis in Ireland
Shining a Light on Endometriosis: Why March Matters in Ireland
As March arrives, the focus shifts towards raising awareness about endometriosis. This condition, affecting roughly 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth in Ireland, can be debilitating yet remains widely misunderstood. Endometriosis Awareness Month is a crucial opportunity to shed light on this condition, empower those living with it, and advocate for better diagnosis, treatment, and support within Ireland.
190 Million Women Globally Suffer with Endometriosis
The exact prevalence of endometriosis is unknown, but estimates range from 2-to-10 per cent within the general female population and up to 50 per cent in infertile women.
It is estimated that at least 190 million women and adolescent girls worldwide are currently affected by the disease during reproductive age, although some women are affected beyond menopause.
Understanding Endometriosis
Imagine tissue similar to the lining of your womb (endometrium) growing in unusual places, like your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even your bowels. That’s the simple explanation of endometriosis. Each month, mirroring a normal menstrual cycle, this misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes. It thickens, breaks down, and bleeds internally, but with nowhere to escape. This can trigger a cascade of symptoms, including:
- Pelvic pain, especially during periods
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful urination or bowel movements
- Fatigue
- Difficulty getting pregnant
The severity of these symptoms varies greatly. Some women experience mild discomfort, while others face debilitating pain that significantly impacts their daily lives.
Why Raise Awareness in Ireland?
Endometriosis Awareness Month goes beyond just raising awareness.
- Delayed Diagnosis: Diagnosis of endometriosis is often delayed on average of four-to-11 years from the onset of symptoms. According to the Endometriosis Association of Ireland (EAI), the average delay in Ireland is nine years. This often occurs because the symptoms mimic other conditions, and a lack of awareness among some healthcare professionals can lead to misdiagnosis and delays in receiving proper treatment.
- Significant Impact:Endometriosis can have a profound effect on a woman’s physical and mental wellbeing. The chronic pain, fatigue, and emotional toll can affect work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
- Need for Research Funding: More research is needed to understand the causes of endometriosis and develop new and improved treatment options specific to the Irish population.
- Breaking the Stigma: Many women feel embarrassed or ashamed to discuss periods and pain. Endometriosis Awareness Month helps to normalise these conversations, allowing women to feel empowered to seek help and support.
Contribute to Endometriosis Awareness Month in Ireland
Here are some ways you can contribute to Endometriosis Awareness Month and beyond:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the symptoms of endometriosis and share this information with others. The more people who understand the condition, the better equipped we are to advocate for those affected.
- Support Organisations: Donate to organisations like the Endometriosis Association of Ireland (EAI) that provide vital support and resources to women living with endometriosis in Ireland.
- Spread Awareness: Talk openly about endometriosis and share stories from those affected in Ireland. Utilise social media platforms with the hashtag #EndometriosisAwarenessMonth to raise awareness.
- Advocate for Change: Lobby for improved healthcare access and increased funding for endometriosis research specifically within Ireland.
By working together, we can transform March from a month of awareness to a year-round movement in Ireland that promotes better understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and support for those living with endometriosis. Let’s break the silence, empower women, and strive for a future free from the pain of endometriosis.
Patient Story – Sorcha Baliczki, Bettystown, Co. Meath
“Everything was amazing and from the minute I woke up I knew the pain was gone,” said Sorcha Baliczki from Bettystown, Co. Meath. “I had suffered with painful cramps all my life and then shortly after the birth of my third child was in so much pain I couldn’t move. After many visits to my GP, I was prescribed painkillers and had a scan that showed possible Adenomyosis. I had never heard of the condition and after some research saw it is potentially very serious and could spread to other organs. The only treatment was a hysterectomy and as I was in my early 30’s I would face a wait of 6 to 8 years for the operation. Going private was not a possibility due to the cost. While exploring online chats and groups I came across Healthcare Abroad and ended up on the phone with Chris. He explained the process and how the costs were covered.” Read the full story about Sorcha’s experience here.