The health ministry supports couples with fertility issues through a special scheme that has increased the amount of funding available and the age limit for eligibility, Health Minister Michalis Damianos said on Saturday.

Opening an art exhibition called The Yellow Ribbon Unwind as part of the EndoMarch Cyprus 2025 campaign, he said Gesy’s introduction of a GP in June 2019, as well as access to a gynaecologist without a referral, helps significantly with endometriosis care.

Endometriosis affects one in five women across the world and is the third cause of hospitalisation for females, he added.

An often underdiagnosed disease, it affects the quality of life for millions of women across the world.

Damianos said the focus of the government’s policies are always on providing upgraded health care to citizens.

Referring to the exhibition, he minister said 20 renowned Cypriot artists’ works depict the testimonies of women who have experienced endometriosis, “immersed in pain and anguish and transformed into symbols of strength, resilience and optimism.

“The health ministry welcomes and supports the organisation of such events that have the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life of citizens.”