Endometriosis Awareness Day

Annually, various events are organized worldwide, on different dates, to promote endometriosis awareness among women.

It all began with the World March Against Endometriosis, or EndoMarch, which took place on March 13, 2014, in approximately 43 countries. Meanwhile, in the United States, the entire month of March is dedicated to raising endometriosis awareness. This tradition has been started by the Endometriosis Association in 1993.

Why it is important to promote endometriosis awareness

Endometriosis, a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of the endometrium outside the uterus. It remains a mysterious disease that affects multiple bodily systems, including hormones, the immune system, and the digestive tract. Once known as the “Eve’s curse,” it is among the most prevalent problems faced by women of reproductive age. An estimated 200 million women worldwide affected, accounting for roughly 10% of all women.

Despite the widespread prevalence of endometriosis, it remains difficult to diagnose, with an average delay of 7–10 years before a correct diagnosis is reached. The exact causes of the disease remain unknown, and there is currently no known cure. As a result, women often undergo numerous examinations and treatments to alleviate symptoms, adding to the burden of this already challenging condition.

Tragically, even in the 21st century, some medical professionals in Britain and the United States dismissed women’s painful menstrual periods as a ruse to avoid school or obtain painkillers. In response, thousands of women have banded together to raise endometriosis awareness, advocate for research, and ultimately improve the quality of care for those affected.

Important facts about endometriosis

  • Endometriosis is an “equality” disease – women from the first menstruation to the onset of menopause can equally have it;
  • It is one of the main causes of infertility globally;
  • Endometriosis significantly reduces the quality of life. It is pain during menstruation and sex, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic abdominal pain, and fatigue;
  • Among patients with endometriosis, 38% experience symptoms before the age of 15;
  • The unification of women who have suffered from misdiagnosis and significant delays in diagnosis has been instrumental in securing funding for numerous endometriosis studies;
  • Despite there is no cure (for now), there are many options for treatment and symptom relief that significantly improve women’s quality of life;
  • Pregnancy and increased progesterone levels often relieve symptoms, but they usually return after childbirth and/or after breastfeeding is stopped.

Is it possible to treat endometriosis

Endometriosis therapy encompasses various measures, including lifestyle adjustments, hormone therapy, and symptomatic treatment. It’s important to keep in mind that every woman is unique, and the approach should be tailored by a trusted healthcare professional.

Currently, researchers worldwide are diligently working to discover a complete cure for this disorder. Meanwhile, you can prioritize a healthy lifestyle, engage in moderate physical activity, and attend regular checkups. These practices can improve your quality of life and reduce pain, even if they don’t provide a complete cure.

For further information on endometriosis risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, please read our endometriosis guide.

Contributing to endometriosis awareness

Prioritizing your health is the most valuable contribution you can make. If you experience symptoms and are advised to undergo surgery immediately, it’s advisable to seek a second opinion. If your daughter complains of painful periods or persistent abdominal pain, it’s critical not to dismiss her concerns. Addressing endometriosis in its early stages can result in more effective treatment and, most importantly, prevent severe consequences.

Join forces with other women who share this condition. World Endometriosis Awareness Day is all about this. About women who have undergone the arduous journey of securing proper treatment, invested in past and present research on this disorder. They all are bringing us closer to discovering effective treatment methods.

We remain optimistic that effective treatment options will become available soon. As women are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to.

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