Endometriosis Walk for Awareness

Endometriosis Walk for Awareness:
500 raise awareness of 20,000

For Immediate Release

Endometriosis Walk for Awareness around Hamilton Lake on Wednesday 4 March aimed to reach the 20,000 women in the Greater Waikato who may have endometriosis - many of whom will not be aware of this significant condition and its impact. The funwalk attracted about 500 participants, many spectacularly dressed in their finest purple attire.

Annette Evans, funwalk co-ordinator from community organisation Endometriosis Waikato said “We have been overwhelmed by the support of the community for this inaugural event.”

“Many were surprised to learn that endometriosis is very common, affecting an estimated 1-in-5 women and teenage girls and can dramatically impair quality of life" Annette said.

The most common symptom of endometriosis is painful periods, characterised by taking pain relief, bed rest and time off work or studies. Endometriosis is also a leading cause of fertility problems.

Annette said women need to recognise that painful periods are not normal and seek medical help, asking their GP for a referral to a gynaecologist specialising in endometriosis.

“The average time from first symptoms to diagnosis is a staggering 10 years – often because women and teen girls ‘normalise’ the pain until it becomes overwhelming. It is frequently confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)” Annette said.

Women and teen girls facing endometriosis can turn to Endometriosis Waikato for credible information, education and community support.

“Endometriosis Waikato can demystify endometriosis to enable women to make informed decisions about treatment options. It is important that women and their families aren’t left facing a significant health problem in isolation” said Annette.

Lisa Hall, formerly a Hamilton student, knows first-hand the valuable role of Endometriosis Waikato. “I had a lot of time of school with very heavy periods with a gripping, twisting pain that radiated from my stomach to my legs. Although I attended a girls school I found it very difficult to explain to anyone how I felt so unwell. It was a very lonely time for me.”

“My mother and I attended a support group meeting. I found it amazing and a relief to talk to other women experiencing the same thing. I could talk about what was happening and how it felt, and these other women understood.”

“While you might have all the medical help, often what really helps is the opportunity to sit down and talk with someone who understands what you’re going through. Girls and women need to be heard by loved ones, support people and medical practitioners, when voicing their concerns about endometriosis. In sharing our experiences, together we can help each other.” said Lisa

“Endometriosis Waikato extends a huge thank you to Contours Hamilton City and Contours North City for their generous support and awesome enthusiasm. Thanks also to our other key supporters: Print House, Hardy’s Health Stores, Health 2000 Cambridge, Community House Morrinsville, Community Radio Hamilton, The Green Frog Sign Co, Landpower Waikato, The Audio Consultant Laser Copy Technology. Their support has made this inaugural event such a remarkable success.” said Annette.

For further information about endometriosis and Endometriosis Waikato see
www.endometriosiswaikatoorg.nz

ENDS

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