Endometriosis Awareness Week – Breaking the Silence on a Hidden Condition

Endometriosis Awareness Week is observed annually during the first full week of March. It aims to raise awareness of endometriosis, a painful and often misunderstood condition that affects 1 in 10 women worldwide. The week encourages education, empathy, and advocacy to support those living with the disease, reduce diagnosis delays, and promote research into better treatments.

Key Facts About Endometriosis Awareness Week

Why Endometriosis Awareness Matters

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body. Despite affecting millions of women, it remains underdiagnosed and under-researched. On average, it takes 7–10 years for a woman to receive a diagnosis. Awareness is key to:

• Shortening the time to diagnosis
• Empowering women to seek medical help earlier
• Eliminating stigma around menstrual and reproductive health
• Advocating for better healthcare policies and funding

The Origins of Endometriosis Awareness Week

The awareness week was first introduced in 1993 by Mary Lou Ballweg and members of the Endometriosis Association during their annual roundtable in Milwaukee, USA. It emerged from the realisation that too many women were suffering in silence, often misunderstood or dismissed by healthcare professionals. Since then, the campaign has grown to involve support groups and organisations in over 60 countries.

How to Get Involved in Endometriosis Awareness Week

• Wear Yellow: Support the campaign by wearing yellow, the colour of endometriosis awareness
• Join a local support group: Connect with others who understand the experience of living with endometriosis
• Donate to research: Fund organisations like Endometriosis UK to improve treatment and raise awareness
• Share your story: Use social media to speak out and educate others about the condition
• Host a fundraising event: Bake sales, walks, and educational talks can raise both funds and awareness
• Call the helpline: Speak to Endometriosis UK for advice, support, and information on treatment options

Frequently Asked Questions

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes infertility.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Common symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, fatigue, and digestive issues. Symptoms vary widely between individuals.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves pelvic exams, ultrasound scans, and in many cases, laparoscopy (a minor surgical procedure).

Can endometriosis be cured?

There is no known cure, but treatments such as hormone therapy, pain relief, lifestyle changes, and surgery can help manage symptoms.

Why is endometriosis awareness important?

Awareness helps reduce the stigma around women’s reproductive health, speeds up diagnosis, improves healthcare response, and encourages more funding for research.

Future Dates for Endometriosis Awareness Week

Hashtags for Visibility

• #EndometriosisAwareness
• #1in10
• #EndoAwarenessWeek
• #EndoWarrior
• #SpeakEndo