Endometriosis: Understanding a Chronic Inflammatory Disease

Endometriosis is a tiny word for a condition that causes a world of pain. It’s an often misunderstood, under-discussed, and dismissed chronic inflammatory disease affecting millions of women. March marks World Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and advocate for better understanding, and care.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. ¹ This tissue can attach to organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and bowel, causing pain, inflammation, and potentially fertility problems. It’s estimated to affect approximately 10 to 15 percent of women of childbearing age. ¹ Approximately one in seven women in Ireland are impacted. ¹

Beyond “Just a Bad Period”

Even as endometriosis is connected to menstrual cycles, it’s far more than just a “bad period.” ¹ The disease is a whole-body inflammatory condition, driven by tissue growing where it doesn’t belong. Patients often experience debilitating pain, extreme bleeding, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue that can significantly impact their ability to perform, study, or even get out of bed. ¹

The Diagnostic Delay

One of the biggest challenges with endometriosis is the lengthy diagnostic delay. On average, it takes ten years to receive a diagnosis. ¹ This delay can lead to years of suffering and a significant impact on a woman’s life, including missing school, dropping out of activities, and experiencing emotional distress.

Treatment Advances and the Need for Expertise

Historically, treatment options for endometriosis have been limited. Ablation, a procedure that cauterizes the surface of endometriosis lesions, has been a common approach, but it’s often insufficient for deeper disease. ¹ Excision surgery, where endometriosis is surgically removed laparoscopically, is now considered the gold standard treatment. ¹

Yet, expertise in excision surgery is scarce in many regions. This often leads women to seek treatment in other countries. Financial support schemes are being developed to help patients access treatment internationally while waiting for care at home.

A National Framework for Change

Recent commitments aim to improve endometriosis care. A new National Framework for the Management of Endometriosis includes pledges for additional surgeries, expansion of fertility supports (as approximately a third of women with endometriosis experience infertility ³), and a public awareness campaign. ¹

Looking Ahead

These measures represent a significant step forward in addressing endometriosis in Ireland. The true test will be implementation – ensuring that additional surgeries are available, overseas support is accessible, and specialist centers are adequately resourced. For women who have long been told to simply tolerate the pain, these commitments offer a glimmer of hope.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

• Severe period cramps
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Painful urination
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Pelvic pain with exercise
• Pain after a pelvic exam
• Pain with intercourse

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