University shines a light on endometriosis research

The University of Wolverhampton is exploring endometriosis at an educational event designed to shine a spotlight on the condition. 

Endometriosis is the name given to the condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body. In the UK, around 1.5 million women and those assigned female at birth are currently living with the condition. 

Colleagues from departments across the University, including Student Life, the Doctoral College, the Directorate of Students and Education and Period Dignity have joined together to host a screening of Below the Belt, an educational film that explores the condition, followed by a Q&A session with experts in women’s health. 

The event is being at held at the University’s Springfield Campus on Friday 17 May 2024 from 3.25 pm until 6.00 pm. 

The panel of experts includes: 

• Nicola Tonks – Pelvic Floor Specialist Nurse – Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust. 
• Dr Rasumnd Malhas – Gynaecologist – The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust New Cross Hospital. 
• Clare Roberts Malloy – CEO Periods Matter. 
• Lauren Kate – artist and researcher into the lived experience of endometriosis. 
• Michelle Worthington – Researcher into Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Exercise. 

University staff and students who are researching women’s sexual health will share their work via a poster exhibition and there will be a small exhibition of Lauren Kate’s work as well as a donation drive for Period Dignity. 

Dr Debra Cureton, Associate Professor of Equality in Learning and Teaching in the Doctoral College at the University, said: “The screening of Below the Belt is a cross-University effort.  As a group, we are passionate about promoting period dignity, challenging stigma and supporting awareness of gynaecological health. Endometriosis is a crippling and chronic condition that is experienced by approximately 190 million women globally, yet there is no known cure. We wanted to highlight the lived experience of endometriosis and, hopefully, help people to better understand the condition.” 

Anyone is welcome to attend the free event. Book your ticket here (attendees must be 16 and over). 

For more information about studying degree courses at the University check out the website or book a place at one of our forthcoming Open Days.  

ENDS