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Endometriosis is a condition that can spread and damage multiple organs, yet in Wales, it is being seen as less urgent than other surgeries. Lara Stevens, a Cardiff endometriosis patient, says the disease is like the cancer she had as a child. Despite this, she argues that it is not being treated with the necessary urgency. She adds that “the endometriosis could be growing, and I wouldn’t know where it is or what it’s going to do next.”
Specialists have echoed Stevens’ views. In the past four years, gynaecology waiting lists in Wales have risen by 92%. Although this figure may not be surprising, it is disconcerting given that the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists concurs with Stevens’ view that endometriosis should be dealt with urgently. According to the College, long-term investment in women’s health is necessary.
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition that occurs when tissue akin to the womb lining is found outside of the uterus. This may include the fallopian tubes, bowel, pelvis, vagina, intestines, eyes, spine, and brain. Symptoms include severe and debilitating pain in the pelvic area, fatigue, and heavy menstrual bleeding. For some women, endometriosis is associated with infertility.
Stevens says she had been trying to become pregnant for four years with a number of miscarriages before opting for private surgery. The specialist found that she was “riddled with” endometriosis, which had grown around her ovaries and other organs. Despite privately paying for surgery, a lesion remains on her bowel, and she is likely to require further surgery. She is now under the care of NHS gynaecology services and remains concerned about the wait times and monitoring of her condition.
Although waiting lists for gynaecology tend to be longer than other surgeries, specialists argue that endometriosis is different and requires priority treatment. The Welsh government says that women’s health is a key priority, and a women’s health plan is due to be released this year. However, without significant investment and change, women with endometriosis may continue to face delays in treatment that could have severe consequences for their health
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