Endometriosis is “the name given to the condition where cells like the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body,” explains Endometriosis UK.

“Each month these cells react in the same way to those in the womb, building up and then breaking down and bleeding. Unlike the cells in the womb that leave the body as a period, this blood has no way to escape.”

The condition can cause painful and/or heavy periods, as well as fatigue, bowel issues, bladder problems, depression and infertility.

Around 1.5 million women in the UK are currently living with the condition. Endometriosis can affect all women and girls of a childbearing age, and can have a significant impact on their life in a number or ways.

With the right endometriosis treatment, many of these issues can be addressed, and the symptoms of endometriosis made more manageable. However, as it can only be officially diagnosed with a surgical procedure, a recent report has indicated many women’s symptoms are being confused with other health problems and thus delaying appropriate referrals.

Indeed, with 40% of women saying they had seen a doctor 10 times before being referred to a gynaecologist and 67% saying they obtained most of their information on the subject from the internet, the findings from the All Party Parliamentary Group on Women’s Health reveal a lack of awareness around what is considered ‘normal’ menstruation and what indicates a more serious issue.

Thank goodness, then, that so many high-profile women are using their platforms to raise awareness of the condition: as well as Halsey, Lena Dunham, Star Wars’ Daisy Ridley, Dancing with the Stars’ Julianne Hough and Olympian Emily Seebohm have discussed their own experiences of endometriosis – and encouraged sufferers to stop feeling ashamed and seek help from their doctors.

For information and support on endometriosis, visit wellbeingofwomen.org.uk and endometriosis-uk.org.

Image: Rex Features

Halsey absolutely refuses to let male managers make her feel ashamed of her endometriosis