The silent stigma around Endometriosis
In light of International Women’s Day, we’re raising awareness for a disease that although barely talked about, impacts a staggering 1 in 10 Aussie women. Endometriosis is an invisible yet debilitating disease, where the endometrium- the blood shed during each menstrual cycle- grows outside the womb, sometimes on the kidneys, the pelvic cavity or around the heart and lungs. Inducing symptoms of excruciating pain and difficult periods, it can also compromise fertility. Endometriosis is said to cost Australia $7.7 billion a year in lost productivity and health costs, but the real kicker is, there is currently no cure. With gold medallist Emily Seebohm, Whoopi Goldberg and Halsey recently announcing their diagnosis, we are experiencing what has been coined ” an endometriosis epidemic.” Yet the condition is being concealed and marginalised in public discussion, with anything related to periods considered a taboo that is strictly ” women’s business.” Today we dispelled this stigma and spoke to Jane Girling, a Senior Researcher from the Royal Women’s Hospital and University of Melbourne to talk about the chronic condition and her new research on the disorder.
Produced by Madison Thorne
