Endometriosis education programme to be rolled out in Irish schools

The endometriosis education programme will help so many young women

The programme has been rolled out by a teacher and medical scientist in 14 schools, according to The Irish Examiner.

There are plans to expand the program to more schools across the country in September.

Often referred to as 'the missed disease', the average endometriosis diagnosis takes around 10 years.

MISE is currently piloting in schools across Ireland. To date, over 1,700 students have taken part. 

The aim of this groundbreaking educational program is to help inform young women about the disease.

MISE (Menstrual Information Specialising in Endometriosis) aims to foster awareness about menstruation and endometriosis in Irish schools.

It has been adapted from the highly successful New Zealand-based me® program.

MISE provides age-appropriate, medically accurate, and culturally sensitive resources to help young people navigate their menstrual health confidently.

With over 200,000 individuals in Ireland living with endometriosis and delays of an average of nine years for diagnosis, this program addresses a critical gap in education, empowering students with the knowledge they need to recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate care.

The program has been rolled out in Irish schools by teacher Cate O’Connor and HSE medical scientist Kathleen King.

According to MISE, 1 in 10 females and an unquantified number of transgender/nonbinary individuals have endometriosis, with symptoms often starting in their teens.

The MISE team believes that early recognition and education can significantly improve lives and reduce long-term health impacts.

MISE is also designed and delivered by experienced endometriosis advocates with healthcare and education backgrounds