Urgent need for increased endometriosis supports says Offaly TD

Independent TD for Offaly Carol Nolan has said there is an urgent need for Government to rapidly increase the level of supports and diagnostic pathways currently available for women experiencing endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a serious, chronic inflammatory disease that affects the entire body, and it is characterised by severe pelvic pain, infertility, internal scarring (fibrosis), heavy and painful menstruation, and can cause irreversible damage to multiple organs.

The Dáil heard that the disease now impacts at least one in ten women in Ireland.

“I know from the vast amount of correspondence and calls I have received from women in my constituency that this issue is having major consequences for women’s physical, mental and emotional health and that it is also creating real pain through fertility issues for many women,” said Deputy Nolan.

“There is a lot of frustration, upset and anger. This motion should be the start of a change of direction. We need to send out a message of support and we need to change the way we do things. We need to ensure there are centres of excellence for women and that this condition is diagnosed in a timely manner, first of all, and that women are supported..

Nolan highlighted the need for clear timelines in regard to endometriosis care, and asked for the establishment of "at least two fully staffed endometriosis centres of excellence within 24 months".

“We urgently need to expand and fast-track a referrals system with primary care training. While the motion’s proposal to end primary care’s diagnostic responsibility is critical, it requires a robust and timely replacement system.

"We should look at mandating a nationwide fast-track referral pathway within 12 months to ensure women with suspected endometriosis are referred to specialists within four weeks of presenting with symptoms. The stories I am hearing indicate women are enduring this for years and years and it has greatly impacted their lives, and that is unacceptable.”

A need to raise awareness about the debilitating condition was also raised by Deputy Nolan.

"A fully budgeted three-year campaign launching within six months that targets schools, workplaces and community groups to educate on endometriosis symptoms and the challenges would be a start, and obviously would challenge the whole stigma.”

“That would send out a message of support to many women who are not being given a diagnosis or support with their symptoms or who are being misdiagnosed in some cases. It would show we support them and we would send that message through a campaign,” concluded Deputy Nolan.