MINISTER FOR HEALTH Jennifer Carroll Macneill has announced a new education programme on menstrual health for schools, workplaces and sports clubs.

The programme aims to tackle the education gap surrounding endometriosis and empower people to recognise the symptoms early so they can seek healthcare.

The Menstrual Information Specialising in Endometriosis (MISE) programme is being adapted from a similar initiative in New Zealand which helps young people understand and navigate their menstrual health. 

Endometriosis causes cells, similar to those in the lining of the womb, to grow outside the uterus and can cause a range of symptoms, with some people experiencing chronic, debilitating pain.

It is believed to affect as many as one in seven women in Ireland and there is no known cure.

The programme is being put together by two education officers; Cate O’Connor and Kathleen King.

Speaking about the announcement Carroll MacNeill said “their work will play a crucial role in raising awareness of endometriosis and its symptoms and in empowering women to access treatment that can improve quality of life”.

Last October, the Minister launched Ireland’s first National Endometriosis Framework.

At the time, Carroll MacNeill said she was “sorry” women and girls have had to wait years for treatment for the condition. 

Since the framework launch funding has been ringfenced for an additional 65 posts specifically for endometriosis services and €2 million in research funding was made available for women’s health.

Carroll MacNeill said though they have “done so much in the last six months” there is still “a long way to go to develop the range of services for endometriosis to which women are entitled”.

“I want to assure everyone affected by this complex and debilitating condition that I will be driving further progress so that we can achieve our shared vision of timely access to quality endometriosis services.”