Women, health practitioners commemorate Endometriosis month
Mar 14, 2024
Dr. Kiggundu said, there is a lot of time lost in fighting endometriosis and urged the group to take the stories to schools.
Catherine Asiimwe, a university student narrated how she has battled Endometriosis for 10 years. (Photos by Ritah Mukasa)1)
Ritah Mukasa
Journalist @New Vision
___________________ Some of the warriors at the event
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. Advocates, healthcare professionals, and affected individuals all over the world come together to spread awareness of Endometriosis.
A condition where the inner lining of the uterus called the endometrium migrates to different areas such as the tubes, ovaries, rectum, bladder, lungs, brain, eyes, and ears.
It becomes aggressive hence causing scaring (endometriosis). It moves through the blood system and can cause great damage.
Last Sunday, March 10, over 50 women who are members of the Endometriosis Foundation Uganda (EFU) converged at Hot Spice restaurant in Rubaga Kampala to commemorate the awareness month. These women, prefer to be called the Endo warriors.
They were joined by Dr. Spire Kiggundu, a gynecologist, fertility specialist, and endometriosis surgeon at Henrob Hospital. He offered free consultations, tests, and surgeries to a few members of the foundation.
Others present were advocates, spouses of the warriors, caregivers, and healthcare practitioners.
The warriors shared horrifying experiences.
Dr. Kiggundu said, there is a lot of time lost in fighting endometriosis and urged the group to take the stories to schools. 
He demystified endometriosis, advising on how those afflicted should manage the condition. He added that many medical professionals don't know about it, reason some women are misdiagnosed.
“In such situations, women are given a cocktail of medicines and the unlucky ones get surgeries,” he said adding; “If the first doctor you meet doesn't diagnose you correctly, you might spend several years looking for help.”
Kiggundu urged the group to increase advocacy such that the Ministry of Health includes Endometriosis among conditions that need special attention. There should also be more information on menstrual pain management in the school curriculum.
“We should stop telling girls that menstrual pain is normal but rather support them to get help from endometriosis experts on time,” he said.
Grace Nagawa, a nurse and founder of EFU said, the event aimed at dispelling myths and bringing this condition to the forefront. She added that the public should know the symptoms, challenges, and available treatments.
Cliff Aliga a professional nurse pledged to advocate at a higher level to help improve the quality of life for those living with endometriosis.
Nagawa hailed the group for their efforts in fighting endometriosis, especially Dr. Kiggundu who has treated many women, Nathan Muyinda who initiated the idea of starting the organization and her brother Joseph Lukwago who facilitates EFU activities.
Endometriosis virtual clinic in offing
Also at the event, Peter Williams chairman of VAKA Health Foundation announced that they are setting up a virtual clinic for easy access to services for chronic conditions including endometriosis. Patients in remote areas will be able to consult experts and get treatment online. VAKA will work in partnership with EFU and Joy for Humanity Health Center in Lwengo district which specializes in providing care to endometriosis victims.
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