EXPERTS RAISE AWARENESS ON ENDOMETRIOSIS, URGING NIGERIAN GIRLS TO SEEK HELP FOR SEVERE MENSTRUAL PAIN
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Endometriosis, a common yet often misunderstood medical condition, is affecting many women and girls in Nigeria, but it remains one of the least discussed health issues in the country. Experts are now calling for greater education and awareness around the condition, stressing that severe menstrual pain is not normal and should not be ignored.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the womb, causing symptoms such as severe pelvic pain, excessive bleeding, painful urination, painful sex, and digestive problems. In some cases, it can lead to infertility. Unfortunately, many women and young girls in Nigeria dismiss these symptoms as regular menstrual pain, causing them to suffer in silence until the condition worsens.
Olatimbo Debo-Olajide, Chief Operating Officer at Medison Specialist Women’s Hospital and Fertility Center, Lagos, highlighted the importance of educating young girls about reproductive health.
During a recent outreach program in secondary schools, she explained that endometriosis can start as early as a girl’s first menstruation. “The essence of this awareness is to ensure that our young girls are well-informed about their health, particularly regarding menstruation. Endometriosis can manifest early, and we need to educate them that menstrual cramps, especially chronic pain, are not normal.”
The challenge, however, lies in the widespread misconception that all menstrual pain is normal. Many women endure debilitating pain, believing it’s just part of their cycle, and only seek help when they experience infertility. This delay in seeking treatment can lead to worsened conditions that could have been managed more effectively if caught earlier.
Ahmed Fatima, a student who attended the outreach program, shared her newfound understanding: “I used to think heavy bleeding or painful urination was normal during menstruation. After this session, I learned that such discomforts should not be ignored and that I should seek medical attention.”
Health experts stress that endometriosis can be managed with early intervention, but the lack of awareness makes diagnosis difficult. Mrs. Ogochukwu Okonkwo, a nurse-midwife and fertility expert, is calling for greater government involvement in raising awareness. “We need more awareness programs and initiatives, especially those led by NGOs, to educate people about endometriosis,” she said. “Parents, relatives, and the government all have a role to play in spreading this vital information.”
With more awareness and education, Nigerian women and girls could better understand the signs of endometriosis and seek timely medical attention, improving their quality of life and reproductive health.
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