Derry City and Strabane District Council has teamed up with Derry Well Woman to observe Endometriosis Awareness Month. Council buildings in Derry and Strabane plus the Tinnies building in Strabane will light up yellow on Tuesday, 24 March.

Endometriosis UK research shows over 1.5 million UK residents have the condition, though 54 percent of people lack knowledge of it. The illness involves womb-like tissue growing outside the uterus, often in pelvic areas like ovaries and bowel. It leads to intense pain and affects schooling, jobs, relationships, mental well-being and daily life. Typical signs cover ongoing pelvic discomfort, heavy menstrual pain, painful digestion and conception issues.

Derry City and Strabane Mayor Councillor Ruairí McHugh stated the condition impacts many local women and girls. He stressed the need to boost knowledge during awareness month, spot signs early and offer support to those affected.

Tracey Harrison from Derry Well Woman welcomed the council collaboration. She noted the disease strikes an estimated 176 million women globally, starts at puberty and lasts to menopause, and requires more public discussion for timely help.

Derry Well Woman runs a monthly support group for those with endometriosis. Meetings occur on the last Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at 17 Queen Street in Derry.

Group members and Derry Well Woman staff plan to join a 23 March gathering at Stormont. They aim to push for better treatment options across Northern Ireland.

The council effort stems from a recent full council meeting motion. People with possible symptoms should see their GP for guidance and potential specialist referral.