Vancouver teen pushes federal government to fund endometriosis education in schools

A 16-year-old Vancouver student is asking the federal government to improve public education about endometriosis, a condition affecting roughly one in 10 people assigned female at birth—about two million Canadians.

Esize Nocente says endometriosis, which causes tissue resembling the uterus lining to grow on surrounding organs, often causes debilitating pain that is frequently minimized by medical professionals. "You're told that period pain is normal and not to be scared," Nocente said. "Some discomfort and pain is normal, but when it gets to the point where some girls can't even get out of bed because they're in so much pain, then that's not normal at all."

In severe cases, endometriosis can cause kidney failure, bowel obstruction, and blood in stool and urine. About 90 per cent of people with symptoms experience severe cramps, and 30 per cent have trouble conceiving.

Nocente is requesting that the federal government fund a national advisory board to develop an evidence-based endometriosis lesson plan and work with provinces to introduce it into age-appropriate classrooms. Her federal e-petition has received over 600 signatures. If all are deemed valid, NDP MP Jenny Kwan for Vancouver East will present the petition in Parliament after it closes on October 14, 2026.

A 2024 study found that after a one-hour lesson on endometriosis, Canadian teenagers showed improved knowledge and comfort discussing menstrual health. Dr. Paul Yong, Canada Research Chair in endometriosis and pelvic pain at the University of British Columbia, noted that there is still much science does not know about the condition, including why some people develop it and others do not.