Half of young adults do now know what endometriosis is, despite the condition affecting one in 10 women, a survey of 2,000 people suggests.
As Endometriosis Action Month begins on Saturday, a charity has warned that many health practitioners including GPs and A&E doctors do not recognise the symptoms, resulting in missed opportunities to stop the disease progressing.
Endometriosis UK is calling on UK governments to to ensure menstrual wellbeing education is implemented in all schools and improve education for all healthcare practitioners.
Emma Cox, the charity’s chief executive, said: “The simple fact is that not enough people know what endometriosis is.
“Such a common and often debilitating disease deserves the same level of recognition as conditions like diabetes and asthma.”
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body.
It is often found in areas around the womb, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis. It also sometimes affects organs, such as the bladder and bowel.
The condition can also lead to difficult getting pregnant, low mood and anxiety.
The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown. It is one of the most common gynaecological conditions, affecting an estimated 1.5 million women in the UK.
What happens when people are diagnosed late?
Sufferers wait an average of almost nine years for a diagnosis, according to Endometriosis UK.
The condition can have a serious impact on their ability to work, and physical and mental health.
A survey for the charity last year found that 78% of respondents who later went on to receive a diagnosis had experienced one or more doctor telling them they were making a “fuss about nothing” or similar comments.
Tests used to diagnose endometriosis include an ultrasound scan and a procedure called a laparoscopy, where a camera is passed through an incision in the abdomen.
How is endometriosis treated?
There are no treatments that can cure endometriosis, but symptoms including pain can be managed.
Patients may be offered painkillers or hormones, such as the combined contraceptive pill.
Some may also be offered surgery to remove affected tissue, the womb, ovaries of parts of the bladder or bowel that are affected.
