From the development of innovative solutions by URGO laboratories to the mobilization of local actors in the South West, a collective dynamic sets up to better understand, relieve and support patients.
Chronic disease long relegated to the background, endometriosis finally emerges as a major public Health issue. This pathology, which affects about 10 % of women of childbearing age – or nearly 2.5 million French people – manifests itself mainly by pelvic pain, often disabling, and fertility disorders. Faced with a delay in diagnosis still too frequent and an absence of curative treatment, private and public actors, especially in the Southwest, are working to advance knowledge and therapeutic solutions.
A disease with multiple faces, often poorly identified
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence, apart from the uterine cavity, of cells similar to those of the endometrium – the mucosa which lines the inside of the uterus. These migrant cells can be fixed on various organs (ovaries, intestine, bladder, etc.) and cause inflammatory lesions responsible for intense pain, sometimes from adolescence.
The diagnosis remains a real obstacle course. In France, it takes an average of seven years before a name is put on symptoms. This period is explained by a persistent ignorance of the disease, a tendency to trivialize menstrual pain, and a lack of training of health professionals. “Many patients experience trying medical wandering, both physically and psychologically,” underline the specialists.
Non -drug solutions to relieve patients
In the absence of final treatment, the management of endometriosis is based on several levers: hormonal treatments, surgery, psychological monitoring … But more and more, non -drug approaches come in addition to improve the quality of life of patients.
This is particularly the case for transcutaneous electrical neurostimulation (Tens), which consists in applying low electrical pulses to the painful area. Several studies, including one published in The International Journal of Women’s Healthhave demonstrated its effectiveness to alleviate pain, reduce the use of analgesics, and improve general well-being.
With this in mind, the Urgo laboratories have developed a medical device called Urgogyn*combining discretion and portability. These electrostimulant patches apply directly to the skin and provide rapid and durable relief. An asset for those who wish to continue their activities without interruption.
-Another useful innovation: heated patches based on essential oils or active agents. According to a study published in Obstetrics & Gynecologytopical low intensity thermotherapy would be as effective as ibuprofen in the management of dysmenorrhea. In the absence of notable side effects, these devices represent a promising solution to appease painful crises.
A global commitment to raise awareness and train caregivers
The involvement of URGO laboratories does not stop at the products. Via its foundation, the group actively supports awareness -raising actions with health professionals. Objective: promote faster recognition of endometriosis and encourage multidisciplinary care strategies. Symposiums, training and specialized publications are regularly organized to highlight new therapeutic approaches, in particular non -invasive techniques.
In the Southwest, mobilization at all levels
The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is a dynamic territory in the fight against endometriosis. Last March, on the occasion of World Awareness Day, the commune of Izon, in Gironde, organized a week dedicated to information, exchanges between patients, and the collection of funds to support the associations committed.
In Bordeaux, the creative agency launched the program Endometriosis academywhich combines art, science and testimonies to better publicize the reality of the disease. An immersive exhibition entitled “Breaking This Silence” was thus inaugurated at the La Lucarne Theater, accompanied by conferences and a round table bringing together gynecologists, patients and researchers.
In addition, medical innovation is also illustrated in the Landes, in Tercis-les-Bains, where the start-up Ziwig installed a laboratory of molecular biology specializing in the analysis of the salivary RNA. Thanks to artificial intelligence, its saliva test Ziwig Endotest® Now can detect endometriosis biomarkers with a reliability of 97 %, in less than ten days. A real turning point in early detection of the disease.
Towards better recognition of the disease
These initiatives, whether technological, associative or medical, bear witness to a deep change in look at endometriosis. “The taboo is gradually rising, but there is still a long way to go,” recalls a Bordeaux gynecologist. The challenge: to ensure each woman an early diagnosis, suitable care and global support. And this, whatever his place of residence.
* Urgo Electrotherapy Painful Rules Rechargeable. Indication: chronic pelvic pain (lower) (ex.endometriosis) and for primary dysmenorrhea, that is to say the pain linked to the rules which are not caused by any underlying gynecological disorder. Read the instructions and precautions on the instructions carefully before use. If in doubt, always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. This medical system is a regulated health product which bears, under this regulation, CE marking. Authorized representative: Shanghai International Holding Corp GmbH (Europe). Distributor: URGO Healthcare laboratories- 21300 CHENÔVE- RCS Dijon 798 251 559- Public capital € 56,280,458. 04/2025
