The Metro have today published an article in collaboration with Endometriosis UK investigating the myth that pregnancy can ease or ‘cure’ endometriosis symptoms. In a recent survey of over 1000 participants, 79% shared that they’d been told to “get pregnant” to cure endometriosis, or ease the symptoms.
Quoted in the article, our Specialist Advisor Joanne Hanley says:
“Pregnancy does not take the endometriosis away – there is no cure and pain can return after giving birth when your period returns.
The majority of medical students are introduced to endometriosis as a part of wider gynaecology training, which is often far too simplistic, failing to cover the complexities, challenges and impact of the condition.”
Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director in women’s health for NHS England, adds: "It’s unacceptable – no-one should be advised pregnancy as a medical treatment, it should only ever be a choice, made if, and when, a woman decides to – with the role of a clinician to facilitate informed choice."
Thank you to those who shared their stories, and to all those who took part in our poll to support this article. If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article, we are here for you.
Click here for our support services, including Nurse Helpline, peer support and online community.
For more information on treatment and management options for endometriosis, please find resources here.
