Student research project furthering the conversation around endometriosis.
Endometriosis
Awareness
It's not just a bad period!
Advocating
An insight into endometriosis //
A short documentary sharing medical and personal insight, and raising awareness.
In this short documentary, medical professionals shared their insight into the reality of endometriosis, the diagnosis, lengthy wait times, and shortfalls that need to be addressed.
Advocates, sufferers and those with suspected endometriosis explained how dealing with the condition has affected their lives and discussed what needs to be improved.
Endometriosis & the media //
A brief podcast looking into the past, present & future of endometriosis representation within the media landscape.
In this podcast, Ella Wilson is joined by former and current journalists, as well as endometriosis sufferers, supporters & advocates, to gain an understanding of how the condition has been reported in the media in the past, how it is currently being reported, and improvements which need to be made.
Endometriosis Awareness Month //
This month of March is dedicated to progressing endometriosis awareness and tackling the wide amount of the population which do not know about the condition.
54% of people do not know what Endometriosis is
New research from Endometriosis UK reveals the shockingly low levels of public awareness for the potentially life-changing condition, endometriosis. Despite affecting 1 in 10 women from puberty to menopause - 1.5 million in the UK - the majority (54%) of people do not know what endometriosis is.
What can I do during Awareness Month?
Ways you can advocate
-
One of the most simple ways to raise awareness of this prevelant condition is simply by talking about it. Share your knowledge and encourage others to be aware of how symptoms present, how it affects lives, and what they can do to help throughout March.
-
Speak out about it on social media. Social media is very popular and may people get their news from it. Share helpful information and resources, which you can find on our social media sites. Using relevant hashtags like #EndometriosisExplained, #EndometriosisAwarenessMonth & #YellowForEndo are a great way to connect with the cause.
-
Push for more research. Get in touch with your local MP or NHS service to push for more recognition of the condition amongst the public.
-
Wear a yellow ribbon. Endometriosis awareness month is celebrated with yellow ribbons. By just wearing one you are showing that you are in support of raising awareness of the condition and opening up the conversation.
History of Endometriosis Awareness Month
Where it started
The movement began in 1993 when Mary Lou Ballweg was one of eight women who founded it. It first started as a week-long time to recognize those suffering from endometriosis. Eventually, it grew into Endometriosis Awareness Month that's now observed every year internationally.
About me //
Hi! I'm Ella, the sole creator of this project.
I am a third year journalism student currently studying at Teesside University.
Having dealt with endometriosis myself, with a lengthy diagnosis and treatment time, and experiencing just how many people have little to no knowledge on this common condition, I have become passionate about advocating for others in the same position and raising more awareness about the condition and how it can impact lives.
Read more about my project below, and please contact me if you wish to be involved!
About the project //
This platform is designed to bring awareness and focus to this heavily common yet widely misunderstood chronic illness. This webpage is a safe platform for those living with endometriosis to speak out about their experiences, a hub for all informative content regarding the condition, and an area advocating for further knowledge of the condition. Everyone is welcome here.
Throughout this webpage and social media channels, you can find educational content, informative articles, personal audio packages, videos, and much more. Feel free to explore your way around!
Please get in touch via email if you wish to take part, advocating for further endometriosis awareness.
A bit about Endometriosis // information from the NHS
Endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body.
Endometriosis usually grows in areas around the womb, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It can also affect organs such as the bladder and bowel.
Endometriosis is commonly diagnosed in women and girls, from when their periods start (puberty) through to menopause. It can affect anyone who has periods.
It’s not known what causes endometriosis and there are currently no treatments that can cure it.
Endometriosis can be a difficult condition to live with, both physically and emotionally.
Finding support //
Finding support when dealing with endometriosis can be difficult, as it is often misunderstood and not widely recognised.
But, there are plenty of support groups and networks available if you are in need or wish to connect with others dealing with the same condition.
We proudly offer a support group on this webpage which you can find under the 'groups' tab. Through joining that group you can connect with others dealing with endometriosis or wanting to learn more.
On our 'groups' tab you are also free to create your own group, opening the conversation to others about whatever it is you wish to discuss/connect about.
Meaningful change can only happen when organisations work together. On our 'resources' tab, you can find links to many wonderful organisations and communities working to support and empower people living with the condition.
