March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month with this year’s theme, ‘Your Story Shaping Our Future,’ highlighting the powerful role that lived experience plays in driving awareness, influencing policy change and improving outcomes for those living with endometriosis.
Endometriosis New Zealand Chief Executive Tanya Cooke says the theme recognises that endometriosis is not just a health issue.
“Endometriosis can affect a person’s education, employment, relationships, fertility, mental wellbeing, and opportunity across a lifetime,” she says. “Every story shared helps people understand the real impact of endometriosis and moves us closer to a future where those affected receive timely diagnosis, effective treatment and compassionate care.”
“Too many New Zealanders suffer for years before being diagnosed, and many more struggle to get on an effective treatment pathway. By sharing their stories, we can increase understanding of the condition, improve recognition of symptoms, and push for the systemic change patients urgently need.”
“Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women, girls and those assigned female at birth and can cause chronic pain, fatigue, heavy bleeding, infertility and has significant impacts on mental health. This not a niche issue, it is a major public health concern.”
Endometriosis New Zealand is continuing to push for improved diagnosis pathways, equitable access to treatments, and national coordination of services through the organisation’s advocacy for a National Endometriosis Action Plan, similar to what is in place in Australia.
Throughout March, a nationwide programme of activities will highlight both the scale of the issue, and the urgent need for better support and services.
Endometriosis Awareness Month Events
Throughout March, Endometriosis New Zealand will be hosting and supporting a range of events across Aotearoa, focusing on increased awareness, evidence-based education, and accessible support to help people better understand and manage the condition.
More information about events happening throughout the month can be found at:
https://nzendo.org.nz/march-awareness-month
This includes a free four-week online Endometriosis & Exercise Series, designed to provide practical support and guidance for those living with the condition.
“The more New Zealanders learn about endometriosis, its symptoms and the stories of those affected, the greater the knowledge and understanding in the community and the closer we get to really prioritising it within the health system,” Cooke says.
120 Challenge and Fundraising
A key feature of Awareness Month is the return of the 120 Challenge, inspired by the 120,000 New Zealanders living with endometriosis.
Participants in the Challenge are encouraged to complete a personally meaningful activity based around the number 120- whether running for 120 minutes, baking 120 scones or performing 120 acts of kindness — while raising funds and awareness.
Find out how to take part in the 120 Challenge here:
https://nzendo.org.nz/120-challenge
“The 120 Challenge is a way for communities, workplaces, schools and whānau to stand in solidarity with those affected by the condition,” says Cooke. “It shows people with endometriosis that they are not alone.”
An online auction will also run during March. Proceeds from both the auction and the 120 Challenge will go towards supporting Endometriosis New Zealand’s education, support and advocacy programmes.
“Fundraising activities like the auction enable us to continue providing vital information, support and advocacy services to individuals and families across the country,” Cooke says
About Endometriosis New Zealand
Endometriosis New Zealand is the national organisation for endometriosis – providing support, advocacy, research, information, education, and awareness on endometriosis. We are committed to improving the lives of individuals impacted by this condition and helping them find a way forward with hope and strength.
Contact:
Tanya Cooke
Chief Executive
Mobile: 027 255 1306
Email: tanya@nzendo.org.nz