On 15 February 2024, Endo Articles and Genea Fertility teamed up to launch the first ever endometriosis retreat hosted at Cedar Springs estate in Kiama, giving ten women the opportunity to engage with a community experiencing similar challenges. 

The event was designed so women can meet others who ‘just get it’. It was an endeavour to empower, educate, and support women for four days with workshops, activities and expert Q&A’s.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects one in nine women, with new studies showing results that argue it is closer to one in seven. The condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body which causes severe pain, issues with fertility and an array of other negative symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, nausea. Endometriosis is commonly misunderstood and difficult to diagnose, leading to isolation and significant physical and emotional challenges for those living with it.

Milli Weaver, the founder of Endo Articles, noticed a gap in medical, community and emotional support for women with endometriosis. Endo Articles began as a health blog on Instagram as a way to fill that gap and bring individuals with endometriosis together.

The event was free for attendees thanks to Genea Fertility, eliminating the financial burden often associated with managing this condition.

There is a substantial physical and emotional tax that comes with a chronic illness like endometriosis, with studies suggesting the annual cost is around $30,000. 

Taking not only medical costs into account but also loss of income and time, other challenges include paying for appointments, scans, medications, driving times, and petrol. 

Not only did participants have the opportunity to talk to experts on a range of topics, they received a goodie bag valued at over $1000, curated to help ease the limitations and challenges of endometriosis.

Goodies included daily self-care activities such as yoga sessions, a hands-on skincare crafting workshop, and lessons from stylists and makeup artists, many of which come from local vendors from the Kiama area. 

The retreat also provided a cooking class, a storytelling workshop and a styling masterclass all to help build confidence, understanding and empowerment within the group of attendees. 

The inaugural endometriosis retreat set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at providing support and healing for individuals living with the condition, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward greater awareness, advocacy, support and community for those affected by endometriosis.