Group set to offer guidance for women

9:13am Sunday 11th May 2008

Comments (1)   Have your say »

A Keighley woman is starting a new support group for fellow sufferers of endometriosis.

Michelle Middleton decided to set up the group after being diagnosed with the debilitating condition several months ago.

She was stunned to discover there was no support network on offer in the area even though two million women in the UK have the condition.

She said: "I was offered no guidance and support to help me deal with the emotional and physical impact on my wellbeing.

"Much progress has been made in recent years with regards to research, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

"But there is the lack of knowledge and support within the medical profession, and the public."

Endometriosis is where cells like the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body.

The blood is released once a month, similar to a period, but because it is internal bleeding it has no way to leave the body.

The bleeding leads to pain, inflammation and scar tissue in places such as the bowel, bladder, vagina and even in lungs and eyes.

Michelle said the condition could be chronic and debilitating, causing fatigue, depression, inability to conceive and problems with sex and relationships.

Michelle said her new group had been endorsed by the Endometriosis UK charity.

She said that the aim of the organisation will be to offer advice, information and understanding for those with endometriosis and their families.

She said: "This will be a friendly discussion group, encouraging mutual understanding and information provision."

Meetings will be held monthly, with occasional speakers, beginning on June 18 at Keighley Healthy Living Network, 13 Scott Street. They will take place from 7.30 to 9pm.

Michelle can be contacted on 01535 671108 or michellemiddleton@live.co.uk.