‘Incredibly difficult and very isolating’: New endometriosis peer support group launches in Limerick

The new group was established after people living with endometriosis said they lacked a local space to connect with others

Local councillor Elisa O’Donovan set up the group after being contacted by a number of people living with endometriosis in Limerick.

An endometriosis peer support group is set to be launched in Limerick for those who have been left isolated by the condition.

The first meeting of the Limerick Endometriosis Peer Support Group will take place on Wednesday, October 7, at The People’s Museum from 7pm.

Local councillor Elisa O’Donovan set up the group after being contacted by a number of people living with endometriosis in Limerick.

“I decided to help set up this group after being approached by so many people living with endometriosis in Limerick who told me they simply didn’t have a space locally to meet other people going through similar experiences,” Ms O’Donovan told the Irish Examiner.

“Since we announced the first meet-up, the response has been overwhelming. I’ve heard from so many people who want to come along, and I think that really demonstrates how much of a need there is for this kind of peer support in Limerick.”

‘Incredibly difficult and very isolating’

Ms O’Donovan added that the group will be an informal space where people with endometriosis can meet others.

“Living with endometriosis can be incredibly difficult and very isolating,” she said.

Endometriosis is a debilitating condition that is as common as diabetes, affecting one in 10 women worldwide. It is estimated that 155,000 women are affected by the condition in Ireland.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb starts to grow in other places, such as the ovaries, bladder and elsewhere where it does not normally grow.

During menstruation, these cells react in the same way as those lining the uterus. However, they have no way to escape and can become "trapped".