Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has called for a women’s health strategy to help address extended waiting times for endometriosis diagnosis.

Her comments coincide with the beginning of Endometriosis Action Month, which promotes the need for positive changes and tangible actions for those who suffer from the condition.

“It is disgraceful women here are waiting for years, often in agonising pain, just to get a diagnosis for endometriosis. The lack of data is astounding and we simply do not know how many patients are waiting for surgery here,” said the South Belfast MLA.

“A women’s health strategy is a fundamental part of Alliance’s published priorities for the next Assembly term, with resources put into diagnostics and treatment. Women must not continue to suffer without much hope of receiving the care they need for endometriosis. The next Health Minister needs to ensure services can meet the demand, prioritise accreditation for services at the Belfast and Western Trust, and recruit the specialists needed for swift diagnosis and treatment.

“We need tangible action and improved outcomes for these patients. A funded plan is also needed to raise awareness of endometriosis because too many are suffering in silence, believing their symptoms are just bad period pains. The condition affects as many as one in 10 women, yet there are those not even aware of its existence.”