Yesterday, new First Minister Eluned Morgan mentioned endometriosis as she outlined her four priorities for Wales over the next two years, including a commitment to “cut NHS wait times” and “improve services for women’s health”.
Endometriosis UK has welcomed this commitment, and says “these words must now be turned into action, and stop the unacceptable delays those in Wales are facing in accessing diagnosis and treatment”.
Latest research from Endometriosis UK released in March 2024 highlights that diagnosis times have increased in the last 4 years, and it now takes on average 9 years and 11 months to get a diagnosis of endometriosis in Wales; the longest in the UK.
According to the Royal College of Obestricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) data, there are also currently 51,139 people in Wales waiting for hospital gynaecology services – many of whom will be waiting for a diagnosis of endometriosis.
The impact of lengthy waiting times on those with endometriosis cannot be overstated. Not only may the disease progress if left untreated, but it can have a potentially devastating impact on all aspects of life – including physical and mental health, career, and education.
We now look forward to working with the First Minister to fulfil these commitments and ensure those with endometriosis have access to the right care at the right time”.
Photo credit: Senedd Commission
