March is International Endometriosis Awareness Month, and we at HER ONE want to raise awareness of this common but often unrecognized chronic female disease. The journey from the first symptoms of endometriosis to diagnosis and treatment is a long and difficult one for many sufferers.
Understanding endometriosis: Definition and prevalence
Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus settles outside the uterus - for example in the abdomen, Gut or peritoneum. These so-called endometriosis lesions can cause severe period pain and other symptoms.
How many women are affected by endometriosis?
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Around 8-15% of all women and girls suffer from endometriosis
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Around 2 million people are affected in Germany
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The WHO estimates that around 190 million people are affected worldwide
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Up to 40,000 new cases are diagnosed in Germany every year
This makes endometriosis the second most common gynecological disease - yet it takes an average of 7 years for a correct diagnosis to be made.
HER ONE "PMS Podcast": Living with endometriosis - Interview with Emily Knafl
Our founder Chanyu Xu has recorded an insightful podcast with content creator Emily Knafl, who talks openly about her experience with endometriosis. Emily bravely shares her personal story on Instagram, helping to break down stigma.
🎧 Listen to our podcast "How to live with a chronic illness" - available on all podcast platforms. Emily provides valuable insights and practical tips for everyday life with endometriosis.
Note: Emily only talks about her individual experiences. This is in no way a substitute for medical advice if you suspect you have endometriosis.
Endometriosis help: How you can support those affected
5 practical tips for relatives and friends
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Show understanding: People with chronic illnesses often have to cancel spontaneously and are frequently tired or frustrated. When plans are canceled at short notice, it is usually due to acute pain attacks.
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Ask regularly: Even if it's the umpteenth doctor's appointment or there has been no communication for a long time - a simple "How are you doing with your endometriosis?" can mean a lot.
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Avoid unsolicited advicePhrases such as "Have you ever tried the pill?" or "Pregnancy will definitely help" are not helpful. Instead, ask: "How can I support you with your endometriosis treatment?"
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Find out about the gender health gapWomen are often inadequately diagnosed and treated for pain disorders such as endometriosis. Scientific studies [2] confirm this problem in the healthcare system.
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Encourage a visit to the doctor: If someone around you suffers from severe menstrual cramps - even outside of their period - gently encourage them to see a gynaecologist who specializes in endometriosis. (Disclaimer: Not every menstrual complaint automatically means endometriosis, even though endometriosis is the second most common gynecological disease)[3].
Conclusion: raising awareness of endometriosis together
Endometriosis Awareness Month provides a valuable opportunity to learn more about this condition and raise awareness. At HER ONE we are committed to increasing awareness and understanding. By talking, supporting and passing on information, everyone can help to ensure that Endometriosis no longer remains in the shade.
Further information on endometriosis
Looking for more information or help with endometriosis symptoms? Follow us on Instagram [@her.one.official] for regular updates, testimonials and expert tips on women's health.
Sources:
[1] Robert Koch Institute (ed.) (2020). Federal Health Monitoring - Jointly supported by RKI and Destatis. Health situation of women in Germany. Berlin. 74-76.
[2] Galea L, Parekh RS. Ending the neglect of women's health in research. BMJ. 2023;381:1303. doi:10.1136/bmj.p1303. Accessed September 24, 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37308180/.
[3] Liselotte Mettler, A. Schmutzler; In: Klaus Diedrich, Wolfgang Holzgreve, Walter Jonat, Askan Schultze-Mosgau, Klaus-Theo M. Schneider: Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe. Springer Verlag, 2006, ISBN 3-540-32867-X.
