Period Pain - Endometriosis Is No Workplace Joke

Period Pain - Endometriosis Is No Workplace Joke

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alasdair Thompson's comment about women's "monthly sick problem" highlights a serious condition affecting tens of thousands of NZ women suffering crippling period pain from endometriosis.

Three quarters of women participating in a Waikato research project on endometriosis expressed concern about resulting absenteeism and productivity.

"My life stops for almost a week.I can't afford to have time off every month" said one respondent. "It has been getting worse over the years and I couldn't take it much longer and employers were not happy with sick days and they didn't understand either."

Another said, "For me the pain was just normal. I had it since puberty and was used to the pain. I had accepted having a day or two per month off work in bed."

The study found that many women suffered serious impairment of quality of life, with absenteeism common, and fertility and relationships affected. Many teen girls and young women are affected by time off studies and uncertainty about the future.

Despite it's significant impact, many women with this common condition remain undiagnosed, with an average international diagnostic delay of 9-11 years.

Annette Evans, from community organisation Endometriosis Waikato, said "women and teen girls need to seek help if period pain affects their lifestyle. GPs can refer them to a gynaecologist specialising in endometriosis, or women can self-refer to a gynaecologist in private practice".

"Endometriosis Waikato has programmes to assist women concerned about symptoms, as well as employers who are concerned about absenteeism" said Annette. "For information about endometriosis and our services see www.endometriosiswaikato.org.nz

About endometriosis:

Endometriosis is a significant condition affecting an estimated 20,000 Waikato women and teen girls. The most common symptom is period pain, characterised by taking pain relief, bed rest and time off work or studies. Endometriosis can dramatically impair quality of life and is also a leading cause of fertility problems.

About the research project:

The independent research conducted by SHORE research was commissioned by Endometriosis Waikato and funded by a Lotteries Community Sector Research Grant. Participants included 132 women as well as gynaecologists, GPs and other health professionals. Results will be available when the study concludes in August.

ENDS

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