Endometriosis awareness programme set for nationwide rollout

Thu, 05 Mar, 2026 - 19:37

Niamh Griffin

An education programme about endometriosis, previously run by just two volunteers, is now being supported by the Department of Health for a nationwide rollout.

The MISE (menstrual information specialising in endometriosis) programme raises awareness of this debilitating condition in schools, sports clubs, and workplaces across Ireland.

MISE, which also means “me” in Irish, aims to fill "a critical gap in education", said a spokeswoman. The course helps girls and women recognise early symptoms so they can seek care and more easily describe what is going on with their health.

It was developed in New Zealand and brought to Ireland by Kathleen King, a patient and advocate for better endometriosis care.

Cate O'Connor and Kathleen King

Kathleen King and Cate O’Connor have been running the programme, mainly in schools. Health minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said on Thursday that she had met with both women.

“I am inspired by the energy and commitment they are bringing to this programme, having been working in this space for many years, and now as part of the HSE,” she said.

“Their work will play a crucial role in raising awareness of endometriosis and its symptoms and in empowering women to access treatment that can improve quality of life.”

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The department estimates that more than 200,000 girls and women live with endometriosis in Ireland.

Ms Carroll MacNeill was speaking at the second endometriosis listening forum which meets to hear from patients.

She said there have been “significant developments” in care since the first forum in September last year.

These include 142 additional surgeries completed above target, along with ring‑fenced funding for this year that will allow a further 65 posts to be filled.

Cork and Tallaght centres

Two supra‑regional centres in Cork and Tallaght have also progressed recruitment, including the appointment of a radiologist and a colorectal surgeon.

“We have done so much in the last six months, but I also recognise that we have a long way to go to develop the range of services for endometriosis to which women are entitled,” said Ms Carroll MacNeill.

“I want to assure everyone affected by this complex and debilitating condition that I will be driving further progress so that we can achieve our shared vision of timely access to quality endometriosis services.”

Ms O’Connor previously told the Irish Examiner the programme has been very popular with secondary school students.

“We go through the basics of the menstrual cycle, and then we go into endometriosis,” she said, explaining that they aim to present the science in an accessible way.

“The other big message we’re trying to get across to them is about what’s normal and not normal, so the difference between discomfort and distress.”