I know what it’s like to endure pain, every single day, because of a debilitating condition. An “invisible illness”, but if you pay close attention you’ll see that endometriosis is not that invisible. Endometriosis is a condition that touches nearly every aspect of life and at times various parts of the body. It has been found in the bladder, lungs, kidneys and even the brain. Endometriosis affects your career, strains your mental health and relationships, and in worst cases can lead to death either due to organ failure or suicide.

 As an endometriosis advocate in South Africa, I've spoken to countless individuals facing the realities of this condition. For them, endometriosis is more than a painful period; it’s a long journey of pain, a delayed diagnosis most times, limited access to affordable care, and those suffering are often met with disbelief and dismissal by employers.

Endometriosis, adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fibroids are conditions that can drastically affect quality of life. Unfortunately, in South Africa, many sufferers experience a severe lack of policies that acknowledge these real struggles. Menstrual leave remain absent for those heavily impacted, while proper medical care is inaccessible or unaffordable for many.

The endometriosis crisis requires immediate policy intervention. By implementing menstrual leave policies, we can offer relief and support to those in need. Special wards dedicated to endometriosis care, alongside increased funding for research on cure and pain management strategies, are essential steps toward managing this widespread health crisis.

About 176 million women globally cope with endometriosis, yet awareness and understanding remain alarmingly low. In South Africa, this means many suffer in silence, unable to access necessary care or to speak freely about their experiences without fear of stigma.

Moreover, establishing menstrual leave and funding research into endometriosis treatment could lead to greater societal understanding and compassion. Proper funding and policy creation would ensure that those dealing with endometriosis and related conditions can pursue fulfilling careers, foster healthier relationships, and attain an improved quality of life.

Your signature can drive change, urging the South African government to implement the necessary policies and funding. Please sign this petition to put menstrual leave and endometriosis care on the national agenda, and help improve the lives of millions of sufferers.