Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease associated with severe and chronic life-impacting pain during normal activities. It sometimes leads to depression, anxiety, and infertility. Endometriosis affects around 10% of reproductive-age women and girls in New Zealand and occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
Endometriosis can be hard to diagnose
The variable and broad symptoms of endometriosis mean that it is not easily diagnosed. Many individuals suffering from it have limited awareness of the condition. This is because it can often be attributed to “normal period pain”. This can cause a lengthy delay between the onset of symptoms and proper diagnosis. Access to early diagnosis and effective treatment of endometriosis is therefore extremely important.
Not ‘acute’ so not dealt with
While the public health system is able to deal with acute medical conditions (e.g., heart attacks, strokes, car accident trauma), it struggles to cope with elective procedures. Endometriosis and other gynaecological procedures are classified as “elective” not “acute”. These conditions may have a major effect on one’s quality of life. Because they are not considered life-threatening, however, they are not given the priority they deserve.
The gift of living pain-free
For those suffering the debilitating effects of endometriosis, Private Medical Cover provides the opportunity for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, performed in a hospital under general anaesthetic, is the only definitive way to diagnose and treat endometriosis. A laparoscope is inserted through a small incision at the base of the navel so the internal organs can be seen. Several small incisions on the lower abdomen are also necessary.
Private medical cover for those you love
For this reason, the best gift a parent can give their teenage daughter(s), while young and healthy, is quality private medical cover. This will ensure that they have immediate access to specialist gynaecologists, expensive diagnostic tools and subsequent treatment.
I am well aware of the debilitating physical and psychological effect endometriosis has on those suffering from the condition. Anything we can do to promote early diagnosis and effective treatment is effort well spent.
It’s what we do!
Theo Simeonidis
UProtectNZ Insurance Services
Footnote: This article has been inspired by the work of an outstanding New Zealander, Deborah Bush MNZM, QSM. Deborah has had a global influence on the promotion and prevention of endometriosis worldwide. She developed the world’s first Menstrual Health and Endometriosis (me™) programme for schools in 1997. This has significantly influenced the early recognition of symptoms and timely intervention in adolescents in New Zealand. me™ has been endorsed by the World Endometriosis Society (WES) as the preferred education programme worldwide.