Is the Healthcare System Failing People with Endometriosis?

Sarah sat down with Healthcare Digital to discuss the impact of Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Why is Endometriosis Awareness Month important?

Every March, Endometriosis Awareness Month provides a vital platform to address a condition that remains underdiagnosed and undertreated.  It is not just a time to rally resources, educate the public and advocate for change, it’s a beacon of hope for millions of women worldwide, shedding light on a condition that often lurks in the shadows of misunderstanding and misdiagnosis.

Endometriosis affects one in 10 women worldwide, yet the path to diagnosis is often long and fraught with obstacles. This delay not only exacerbates the physical and emotional toll on those experiencing  the condition, but also underscores a larger issue in healthcare – the lack of focus on women’s health, the pervasive underestimation of women’s pain and the need for more informed, patient-centric care.

In an era where women’s health continues to be deprioritised, this awareness month is an opportunity to highlight the need for early detection, effective treatment and the broader implications of neglecting women’s health conditions. It’s also a time to challenge misconceptions and advocate for a healthcare system that recognises and addresses the unique needs of women. 

Women’s healthcare requires prioritisation, innovation and, crucially, the voices of those it serves at its heart. It is imperative to prioritise discussions between influential leaders, key stakeholders and policymakers in order to raise awareness and improve women’s health conditions, particularly through optimising the heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) patient pathway. 

It also needs industry commitment extending beyond technology and treatment to ensure that women are empowered to make informed decisions about their health. Initiatives, such as “Wear White Again”, aimed at raising awareness of HMB, a condition that can severely impact a woman’s quality of life, are needed. 

Why is it important to prioritise women’s healthcare?

Empowering women to be at the centre of healthcare decisions is critical. Shared decision-making ensures that healthcare solutions are tailored to the individual’s needs, acknowledging that women are the best advocates for their health when fully informed. This approach is essential in treating many conditions affecting women including endometriosis and HMB, where understanding and empathy can significantly affect outcomes.