BARBADIANS ARE NOW MORE aware and are seeking information about endometriosis and PCOS.
Treasurer and co-founder of the Barbados Association of Endometriosis and PCOS Dawn Williams told NATION Online there was very positive feedback as they wrapped up the month of activities focusing on endometriosis today.
“People are curious about the condition, those who have not heard before. Even this morning, the police who were escorting us were asking about it,” Williams said.
“There is a lot more talk in Barbados about it, more awareness about it.”
She said people were coming forward to volunteer and join the six-month-old association, the brainchild of Williams and president Julia Mandeville.
Williams was the project manager behind today’s walk which attracted about 400 participants.
She explained there was a worldwide EndoMarch which was started by a group of American doctors to raise awareness. Countries can stage their own activities to put the spotlight on the condition.
Williams was pleased to see the numbers attending the walk and is already looking ahead to what can be done to improve the next one, as well as the activities for PCOS awareness in September.
One of the other highlights was a seminar held on March 2 at St David’s Church which provided a wealth of information for those who attended. Dr Juliet Skinner of the Barbados Fertility Centre made a presentation on endometriosis, infertility and treatment.
Dr Nicole Durham, pelvic health physiotherapist Jasmine Evelyn and counselling psychologist Vania Patrick-Drakes, who are all trustees on the Board of the Endometriosis Association, also spoke at the seminar.
The National Health Service of the United Kingdom defines endometriosis “as a common condition where tissue that behaves like the lining of the womb (the endometrium) is found outside the womb”.
Symptoms include painful periods (dysmenorrhea), pain during intercourse, excessive bleeding and fertility.
PCOS or Polycystic ovary syndrome occurs were many small cysts grow on the ovaries, caused by a hormone imbalance. If left untreated, it can lead to infertility and serious health issues. (SAT)
