World Endometriosis Society launches first ever film to raise awareness of endometriosis
London, 11 MARCH 2011
The World Endometriosis Society (WES) today launched a film to help an estimated 176 million women across the globe to recognise symptoms of endometriosis before their long-term health and quality of life are affected.
Vice-president of the European Parliament, Diana Wallis, urged women to take action:
- Diana Wallis MEP, Vice-president of the European Parliament
“Don’t be like me. Don’t take no for an answer. If you feel something is wrong, you could have endometriosis. There are things that can be done to help you. Go and get advice, but also make others aware, because I don’t want you to end up like me”.
Diana Wallis had a full hysterectomy, as a newly wed; an operation that could have been avoided with earlier diagnosis and treatment of her endometriosis. She was never able to have children. Today, she urges young women not to compromise their fertility, like she did, and get help – and treatment – early.
World Endometriosis Society president, Hans Evers, agrees:
- Professor Hans Evers, President of the World Endometriosis Society
“It is difficult to say what is normal and what is not normal, but as a general rule women know what is too much pain. There is a difference between menstrual discomfort, and pain that prevents you from going about your daily life.
Endometriosis is a serious, chronic disease that requires treatment. I would like to invite women to take the initiative and see their doctor to have endometriosis diagnosed”, said Evers.
This film has been created to help educate women about what is normal, and what isn’t when it comes to pain. It highlights the symptoms of endometriosis, explains diagnosis and treatment options, and encourages those – who recognise these symptoms within themselves – to seek help before their long-term health is affected.
Please help raise awareness of endometriosis. Share this video with everyone you know!
