Press Release: Thursday 5 March 2026
Minister for Health announces HSE endometriosis education programme
The Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD has today announced the roll-out of an endometriosis awareness programme, run by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Two education officers have been engaged to deliver the comprehensive MISE (Menstrual Information Specialising in Endometriosis) programme which aims to educate people, particularly in schools, sports clubs and workplaces, on menstrual health, with a specific focus on endometriosis.
MISE, adapted from a successful New Zealand-based programme, provides age-appropriate, fact-based, and culturally-sensitive resources to help young people navigate their menstrual health.
With over 200,000 individuals in Ireland living with endometriosis, this programme addresses a critical gap in education, empowering girls and women with the knowledge they need to recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate care.
Speaking at the Second Endometriosis Listening Forum, the Minister said:
“I have met with educators Cate O’Connor and Kathleen King and I am inspired by the energy and commitment they are bringing to this programme, having been working in this space for many years, and now as part of the HSE.
“Their work will play a crucial role in raising awareness of endometriosis and its symptoms and in empowering women to access treatment that can improve quality of life.”
Since the first Endometriosis Listening Forum in September 2025, there have been significant developments in endometriosis services.
These include:
- 100 additional surgeries promised, 142 additional surgeries completed.
- Endometriosis Framework launched October 2025.
- Funding ringfenced for 2026 for an additional 65 posts specifically for endometriosis services. This is a 180% increase in the dedicated endometriosis workforce.
- Supra-regional clinics: Consultant radiologist recruited in Tallaght and funded in Cork.
- Colorectal surgeon recruited for Cork.
- HSE clinicians receiving training in advanced endometriosis treatment in Europe.
- HSE established the Endometriosis Surgery Abroad Scheme (ESAIS) to support women to access surgeries abroad while capacity is being developed in Ireland.
- A menstrual health public awareness campaign, with a focus on endometriosis, is in development.
- €2 million research funding available for women’s health, including endometriosis projects.
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“We have done so much in the last six months, but I also recognise that we have a long way to go to develop the range of services for endometriosis to which women are entitled.
“I want to assure everyone affected by this complex and debilitating condition that I will be driving further progress so that we can achieve our shared vision of timely access to quality endometriosis services.”