First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has called on the medical community to place greater emphasis on research, early diagnosis, and timely treatment in addressing endometriosis, urging professionals to transform awareness into action.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a workshop series organised by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Maldives (SOGM) in Dharumavantha Hospital on 1 September, the First Lady said that medical staff and institutions must remain up to date with advances in diagnostic tools and treatment methods. She described this as a responsibility, not a choice, if women’s health is to be taken seriously.

She pointed to the resilience of women living with endometriosis, many of whom endure long-term pain while maintaining careers and family duties. The condition, she noted, is often misdiagnosed and complicated further by stigma surrounding menstrual health. In response, she urged greater compassion from healthcare providers, earlier detection, and stronger community support.

Turning to policy, the First Lady welcomed the Government’s recent decision to expand the Aasandha universal health insurance scheme to cover treatment for endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She described the measure as a milestone in improving access to care and an important signal of commitment to women’s health.

She encouraged institutions to use the findings of the workshop as a springboard to create a national action plan on endometriosis, to integrate menstrual health awareness into school programmes, and to strengthen networks of specialists nationwide. She also commended SOGM for providing a platform for doctors across the country to share knowledge and promote inclusive care.

Concluding her remarks, the First Lady called for a united effort to end the silence around endometriosis and urged stakeholders to ensure that workshops such as these drive tangible, long-term improvements in healthcare rather than remain isolated conversations.