Endometriosis sufferers encourage education on the disease
Patients with endometriosis could expect to wait up to eight years for a diagnosis, new research has shown.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Endometriosis released a report this week detailing the lack of care available for sufferers.
One and a half million people live with endometriosis in the UK and symptoms include pain in the lower stomach or back, severe period pain and pain during or after sex.
Olivia Broadbent, 20, a student from Bracknell, believes she has the disease but hasn’t yet been diagnosed. She said: “It’s an invisible illness and because you can’t see it, people think you’re overreacting.”
The long- term condition occurs when tissue grows in areas such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Jodie Hughes, 36, takes part in charity work for Endometriosis South Coast. She said: “I used to work for Endometriosis UK but soon realised there was a strong need for support on a local level.”
In a recent survey, it was found that 60% of those with the disease have considered taking their life.
“It’s a vicious cycle; you get a bad pain flare up, which affects you mentally,” Jodie said.
For help, support and advice visit Endometriosis South Coast.
