The last year has seen a shift in the way we talk about women’s health. Conversations have moved from whispers and innuendo to more open discussions in workplaces, in the media, and in the Houses of Parliament. It is a welcome change. Last month was Endometriosis Awareness Month. We want to get people talking about the condition that affects one in 10 women. Despite its prevalence, 32 per cent of the population do not know what endometriosis is.
Later this year, we will publish the government-led Women’s Health Strategy for England and appoint the first Women’s Health Ambassador. These are important milestones that should be celebrated – but there is still much more to do.
Endometriosis is an extremely painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere inside the body – often around reproductive organs, bowel and bladder. Tissue builds up every month but, unlike a period, there is no way for the blood to escape.
It has been positive to see awareness rising, with three-quarters of women able to identify endometriosis as a gynaecological condition, up from 66 per cent last year, but almost half of men are still unaware of what it is.
Over three-quarters of women would be put off from going to their doctor if they were experiencing painful periods which were interfering with their day-to-day activities. This is not acceptable. We must ensure all women feel confident in going to their GP when they experience symptoms of endometriosis and, when they do, that they are listened to.
This week we have seen the tragic reality of what can happen when women’s voices are not listened to when it comes to their care. Donna Ockenden’s report into maternity failings at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals raises specific concerns for maternity services, but more widely we must address issues across the whole of the health and care system when it comes to listening to women’s concerns and recognising their pain.
Women suffering from suspected endometriosis are spending too long in pain waiting for a diagnosis, often feeling ignored by clinicians. That is why we are committed to reducing the time it takes for women to receive the right support, and for those with severe symptoms to receive a definitive diagnosis. When women speak to doctors about symptoms like severe period pain, pain during or after sex, or pelvic pain, endometriosis should be considered as a cause.
While there is no cure, a diagnosis or treatment can help women understand their symptoms and manage them, as well as being able to have open discussions with employers about what additional support may be needed.
We want to further implement awareness and education in schools. Talking to girls and boys about women’s health from a young age breaks taboos and ensures the next generation of women do not grow up feeling embarrassed about their bodies.
Men also have an important role to play in supporting people with endometriosis. We owe it to the women in our lives – our mothers, sisters, wives, daughters and friends – to take the time to understand how we can support people with endometriosis who may be silently suffering.
It has been great to see high-profile names talking about their experiences with endometriosis. This week, social media influencer Molly-Mae Hague posted a YouTube video answering questions about her symptoms and diagnosis journey. Coronation Street’s Kate Ford, who plays Tracy Barlow, has also spoken about living with the pain while filming. This openness and honesty really helps to break down taboos and shines a light on the realities of this condition.
In our upcoming Women’s Health Strategy, we will outline our plan to support women with endometriosis, including working with GPs around training, and those trying to get support for their painful symptoms. We will do what we can to help you get the support you need, and we want you to know that we are listening.
