1 in 10 women and people who ovulate have PCOS or Endometriosis. Unfortunately, many women and girls with both disorders go undetected for years, enduring needless physical and mental suffering. This is because there is a lack of knowledge and awareness of both disorders.

Many PCOS and Endometriosis sufferers went years without receiving a correct diagnosis and endured their conditions in silence since they were oblivious to their true conditions. Women from all over the country still encounter the same lack of response from a medical establishment that has little understanding of PCOS or Endometriosis, except in cases where the infertility element is being assessed. This is despite the fact that we live in a time when medicine is extremely advanced.

According to research, women with PCOS are three times more likely to develop endometrial cancer, and they may also be at higher risk for ovarian and breast cancer.

According to research, women with PCOS and Endometriosis attempt suicide up to seven times more frequently than other women due to symptoms of anxiety and depression.

PCOS can occur in preteens and teenagers. An earlier diagnosis may enable patients to better control the psychological, mental, and physical impacts of PCOS. Additionally, it may enable them in delaying the onset of more severe PCOS-related disorders.

I was diagnosed with PCOS, in 2019, I was 28 years of age. I felt confused as to why this was not pick up early and how I have had to be confused ab out what was happening with my body. A times I felt alone as this was not something that many people knew about. I am starting this petition to empower woman of South Africa about this disorder, that so little is known about. 1 in every 10 women have PCOS and Endometriosis, and the most heartbreaking part of it is that they are not aware of it. My goal is to spread the awareness throughout my country to support our woman of South Africa and that starts with ensuring that our health care workers are aware that PCOS and Endometriosis are serios medical conditions.

Therefore, it is the responsibility of PCOS leaders, government representatives, organizations, and activists to work together to establish plans for significantly raising the standard of healthcare and education for all healthcare workers and individuals with the condition. Patients with PCOS cannot and should not be ignored as having a gynecological or reproductive issue!

The severity of PCOS and Endometriosis as a metabolic endocrine condition and the connection between these disorders will go unnoticed if sufficient education and awareness are not spread. Early diagnosis and treatment makes a huge difference, meaning that education around PCOS and Endometriosis is important.