Hot Seat y

AS March draws to an end, it’s important to look at conditions which affect people’s day to day lives, which often go unnoticed.

One such condition, endometriosis, has just had an action month to raise awareness and support for what can be a debilitating condition.

Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the ones lining the womb are found elsewhere in the body, this can lead to chronic pelvic pain which interferes with everyday life.

Across the whole of the UK, 1.5million people are affected by the condition which often is for life and yet awareness of condition is at a low with the public, with 49% aware of the condition.

So what is happening locally? In Bridgend and Porthcawl, I am pleased to say we have the fantastic Swansea and Bridgend, South Wales Endometriosis Support Group which is volunteer run and provides vital advice on what services are available.

However, outside of this vital group, more work has to be done. Currently, there are only two clinics in the whole of Wales, based in Swansea and Cardiff. This means a drive of 30 minutes to access support which many need for day to day living.

I have been overwhelmed by the number of people suffer from this condition.

Many who suffer from the condition, do not even receive the limited but critical support that is available. 75% of those with symptoms of endometriosis would not go to the doctor, additionally, it takes on average nine years to diagnose endometriosis in Wales.

More has to be done, not only to raise awareness of this condition but also to support those who suffer from it.

In the Senedd, I am working to raise awareness of this issue.

In 2022, I met with Beth Hales, who brought a petition to the Senedd calling for better health care for endometriosis patients in Wales.

In 2018 the Welsh Government established an Endometriosis Task and Finish Group, to investigate the challenges faced by those suffering from the condition and in recent weeks, the Health Minister, Eluned Morgan has stated that the Welsh Government take ownership of this issue and will be tackling it.

If you or your loved one is suffering from endometriosis, please contact your GP or Endometriosis UK for a list of services which are available in our community.

As your member of the Senedd, if you have any issues, please feel free to get in touch and I will gladly assist.