By: Sammi Montgomery

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) — March not only celebrates Women’s History Month, but raises awareness for endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a condition that is often misunderstood, even by patients who experience it. Awareness of the disease reduces stigma, educates the public about the seriousness of the disease, and supports research efforts.

Endometriosis affects one in 10 women worldwide, according to the American Medical Association.

Despite the prevalence of endometriosis, there is no cure. However, progress over time has been made in both diagnosis and treatment.

“When I first went through training, we relied on surgical procedures for diagnosis. Today, we really try to avoid surgery if at all possible, now we go more by a patient’s symptoms,” said Dr. Angela Curry.

The origin of the disease and a remedy are still unknown to researchers.

“We’re still not really certain what causes it. We’re still trying to improve our diagnostic ability,” Curry said.

Symptoms of the disease vary in both severity and experience. Common symptoms are chronic pelvic pain, irregular and heavy menstrual cycles, infertility and fatigue.

Endometriosis is often considered an “invisible” condition because many patients experience internal symptoms that do not show on the outside. The disease can alter routines, making daily tasks more difficult. While some women experience manageable symptoms, others face life-altering effects.

“Women who suffer from infertility—when I have a patient coming to me and they have been trying to get pregnant for quite a while and we are trying to ascertain a cause—the rate of endometriosis in that population is probably around 70 percent,” Curry said.

Advocates like The International Urogynecological Association support endometriosis awareness to reduce stigma and get communities informed.

“The validation is important for young women,” Curry said.

However, women who seek out medical help for symptoms of endometriosis can be met with challenges.

Yale School of Medicine found that on average, it takes a woman 10 years from the onset of her symptoms to receive a diagnosis.

Curry agreed with the statistic and said, “Be persistent, and find a provider that is willing to listen. You don’t always find that the first time.”

While March allows for the celebration of women, it also provides a time to reflect on medical professionals and researchers to find more answers to endometriosis.

Dr. Angela Curry has been with Pat Walker Health Center and Women’s Clinic for two years now. Patients can contact Pat Walker Health Center for an appointment or questions for their medical provider.