March is Endometriosis Awareness Month: March into Yellow. From March 1 to 31, Endometriosis Australia challenges communities around the country to wear something yellow, to spread awareness and raise funds for critical Endometriosis research, resources, and education initiatives.
Endometriosis, or ‘Endo’ is when tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus (womb) occurs outside this layer and in other parts of the body causing pain and/or infertility. It can only be formally diagnosed by sending off a biopsy, taken via laparoscopy, but non-surgical treatments can often be offered on your doctor’s recommendation alone.
Endo is graded from mild (stages I, II) to moderate (stages II, III) or severe (stage IV), depending on how widespread the tissue is. There are currently no known cures or prevention methods.
The most significant and debilitating symptom of Endo is pain. This pain can occur during or around menstruation, ovulation, or sex, and when you urinate or empty your bowels. It can also exist when you do nothing at all, often in the abdomen, pelvic region, lower back, or legs.
Other signs/symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Frequent need to urinate or difficulty holding on when your bladder is full
If think you may have Endometriosis, it is important to see your doctor. Aside from the pain it causes, this condition can negatively affect your chances of becoming pregnant and carrying to term.
Endometriosis affects at least one in nine Australian mothers, daughters, sisters, friends… That’s over 830,000 nationwide.
Endo Awareness Month is a chance to talk openly about the signs, symptoms, and effects of endometriosis and show your support- whether you add a pin to your outfit, paint your nails, or go all-out in all-yellow every day.
Show your support for the March into Yellow campaign on social media using the tags #MarchIntoYellow2023 and #EndometriosisAustralia. For more information or to register your support, visit the March into Yellow and Endometriosis Australia websites.
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