AN MS has called for more support for women suffering with endometriosis amid “inadequate” support in North Wales.

Siân Gwenllian said there needs to be more support for people with the condition that affects one in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK.

There is currently no definite cure for the condition, with treatment focusing on managing the symptoms and improving patients' quality of life.

Wales’ only specialist clinic that can carry out the excision of the cells, among the best treatments available for severe symptoms, is located in South Wales. Patients in the North being referred for treatment in North West England, which can be subject to lengthier waiting times.

“The support available is generally inadequate, but the lack of specialist services in North Wales is scandalous, with most patients having to travel across the border, for example to Liverpool Women's Hospital,” the MS for Arfon said.

“Owing to that fact, the problems that arise are numerous; delays in treatment, traveling distance, and lack of services through the medium of Welsh, to name but a few.

“There’s the financial burden too, of course. Those suffering often struggle with claiming welfare benefits, and many of those who work face problems with their employers if they are off work because of their illness.

“Lack of awareness of the condition in the Department for Work and Pensions means that sometimes women fail to meet the health criteria.”

Cells similar to those in the womb lining grow in other parts of the body, and each month go through the same process as cells found in the womb, causing them to break down and bleed. But unlike the cells in the womb, which leave the body during menstruation, the blood has no way to leave the body, which can cause severe pain, irritation and scar tissue.

The condition can have a significant impact on a person's life in a number of ways, including chronic pain, fatigue, depression, sex problems, and inability to conceive.

However, given the right treatment, the symptoms of endometriosis can be addressed.

According to some, there is not enough awareness of the condition among healthcare workers, including GPs, nurses, midwives, and sexual health workers.

The call comes in the wake of the murder of MP David Amess, who was a vocal supporter of improving services for people suffering with endometriosis.

“Following the horrific murder of David Amess MP last week, we have an opportunity to reflect on an issue that was very important to him,” Mrs Gwenllian added.

"He was a passionate campaigner for supporting those with endometriosis, and in 2018 he set up a cross-party group of MPs to raise awareness and improve the care that is available."

Mrs Gwenllian made the call after being contacted by Rhiwlas resident Kate Laska, who has recently received had surgery at Liverpool Women's Hospital and is recovering at home.

She had waited for treatment for seven years after her diagnosis and losing her job due to the debilitating effects of the condition.

“I had no idea that for the next seven years I would spend fighting for my right to treatment,” she said.

“Due to very often suboptimal care and a lack of awareness amongst the healthcare workers as well as society (including myself), endometriosis in my case progressed to stage four and required numerous complex surgeries.

“Women with endometriosis suffer in silence and very often alone because no one around them can imagine their pain.

“Time is crucial with this chronic condition. Women’s health is important for the future of this planet. This is why there is an urgent need for a local service based in North Wales.”