A new support group for endometriosis, a condition that affects 1.5 million women in the UK, has launched in Poole. The group will be lead by Gemma Diaper, with the support of Endometriosis UK.
The first support group meeting will be held in the function room at The Grasshopper (139-141 Bournemouth Road, Poole, BH14 9HT) on Thursday 17 January 2018 between 7pm and 8.30pm. Those interested in attending should visit http://www.bit.ly/EndoUKDorset for more information.
Endometriosis can affect all women and girls of a childbearing age, regardless of race or ethnicity, and the cause is unknown. The condition causes the endometrial cells lining the womb to migrate to other parts of the body. Each month these cells react in the same way to those in the womb, building up and then breaking down and bleeding. Unlike the cells in the womb that leave the body as a period, this blood has no way to escape. Symptoms vary in intensity – some women endure severe pain while others have no pain but may experience fertility issues.
Dorset Support Group Leader, Gemma Diaper comments, “Support groups are a lifeline for women with endometriosis. The condition can impact on people’s lives in so many different ways, which is why it’s so important to share experiences, knowledge and self-help techniques.
This is a brand new group, and we’ll meet every month. I’ll be arranging guest speakers, who will offer valuable information on a wide-range of issues related to the condition. We’ll also be working to raise awareness locally about endometriosis, to ensure women are aware of symptoms and can confidently raise concerns with a medical professional”.
Mr Tyrone Carpenter, Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and lead consultant at the Dorset Endometriosis Centre based at Poole Hospital, comments, ”The formation of a local support group is excellent news for the local population. Ladies with this condition often need ongoing support and practical help which is often best provided by peers who fully understand what they are going through”.
For further information on how to join the group and for details about Endometriosis UK, visit www.endometriosis-uk.org
