Every year, the United States and several other countries recognize endometriosis during the month of March. The first Endometriosis Month was acknowledged by the International Endometriosis Association in 1993. While not every country participates in recognizing this condition, many women’s health organizations have started campaigns to educate people around the world.
Because nearly 180 million women around the world are affected by this disorder, where tissue grows outside of the uterus instead of internally to form a lining, raising awareness is important. Not only can endometriosis, often just called “endo,” cause a lot of pain during sex and also during periods, it can also lead to changes in hormones and can contribute to infertility.
Those changes may cause problems with the digestive tract, trouble becoming pregnant, irregular periods, and other medical issues that can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Unfortunately, many women aren’t diagnosed with the condition until they’ve exhausted many options and had many other kinds of tests to rule out problems.
The good news is that there have been treatment option improvements and advances through the years. Now, women who are diagnosed with endo can get more help and support than ever before. There are surgical and non-surgical options that can reduce pain and regulate hormones, making women’s lives easier.
But that’s after getting a diagnosis, and finding a doctor who takes their pain and health issues seriously. The downside is that many women still go undiagnosed much longer than they should have to. A faster diagnosis could lead to better treatment and a higher quality of life.
One way to encourage diagnostic tests and make it more likely for women to get the help they need is to raise awareness of the problem all over the world. The more the public knows about endometriosis and its symptoms, the more society will advocate for women to get the care they need.
A yellow ribbon is the traditional symbol of support for endometriosis awareness. By wearing this ribbon in March, people can encourage more dialogue about endo and make it easier for women with the condition to feel supported on their healthcare journey.
The journey to becoming a parent usually involves having access to and using a team of dedicated professionals and organizations to make your dreams a reality. We would like to facilitate your access to some of these people and organizations. Please contact us today to get started on your journey.
P.S. Stay tuned for FISD’s blogs in March we will have an in-depth 4-part series on Endometriosis!
