Salford student wants to improve our understanding of endometriosis

A Salford student has been taking photos to raise awareness of Endometriosis.

Endometriosis affects 1 out of 10 women, with there being 33% of women that don’t know what it is.

This month is Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Endometriosis UK explains what it is by saying, “Endometriosis is a long-term condition which sees tissue similar to the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body, generally on organs in the pelvic cavity such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowel.

This has been found out through new research by charity Endometriosis UK which shows that 54% of people are unaware of what Endometriosis actually is.

In addition, it shows that there is an even greater unawareness in young women as 62% of women between the ages of 16-24 don’t know what it is.

There is a total of 74% of men who don’t know what Endometriosis is.

“It can be painful and may have a devastating impact on a woman’s education, personal and professional relationships, mental health, and quality of life.”

Salford University photography student Megan Cope was diagnosed with Endometriosis in 2017.

She decided that she would start photographing her body after surgery to document the process.

After having her second surgery in 2019, Megan decided to reach out to Endometriosis UK Manchester Support Group on Facebook.

She asked if any women would be willing to be photographed to raise awareness and promote body confidence with Endometriosis.

Megan was overwhelmed with the feedback she received:

“I was only expecting a couple of replies but to my surprise I had over 75 replies of women really wanting to be apart of the project.”

She went on to talk about the feedback, “The feedback of the project so far has been unbelievably supportive and positive.

“No matter the outcome of this series, I am extremely happy with the work I’ve produced.

“Every person I have photographed, including myself has left the shoot feeling beautiful and loving the images – which is all I wanted.”

Therefore her project MoreThanEndo was made.

Megan spoke about the best thing about her project stating, “The most amazing thing, I believe, to come out of this project, is the women I’ve met.

“Each and every one of them were beautiful and amazing, and the shoot felt more of a friendly chat.

“It was amazing to be able to talk to women that were going through the same issues but discuss them in a positive way.

“Without every single woman that took part, this project would not of happened.”

Talking about the future of MoreThanEndo she revealed, “I’m currently looking for somewhere to exhibit my work like in a local hospital or Gyne ward, to raise awareness but also show newly diagnosed women that endo isn’t something to be afraid of.”

“There’s so many women going through similar experiences and it hasn’t stopped them from living their lives.

“I’ve also started to create a magazine which will contain medical information, advice and contact information for support groups etc.

“This will be accompanied by personal stories and photographs from the shoots.”