Breaking the Silence: Understanding the Pain of Endometriosis

Endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately 1 in 10 women globally , remains shrouded in misunderstanding and stigma, despite its profound impact on physical and mental health. Surprisingly, recent statistics from Endometriosis UK reveal that 62% of women would delay seeking medical attention for symptoms of endometriosis, citing reasons ranging from embarrassment to disbelief that their symptoms are significant enough to warrant attention.

A lot of normalisation around suffering through pain is compounded by societal myths perpetuating the notion that debilitating period pain is normal or indicative of a low pain threshold. Consequently, individuals suffering from chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, and other symptoms often endure an average diagnosis time of 8 years—a delay that can have devastating consequences on their well-being and quality of life.

Endometriosis is characterized by pain, ranging from moderate discomfort to excruciating agony, yet articulating this pain can be challenging. The complexity of describing endometriosis pain contributes to the dismissal and disbelief many individuals face when seeking medical assistance.

The impact in the workplace:

Workplaces must recognize the impact of endometriosis on employees and provide appropriate support and reasonable accommodations. Offering access to health experts and covering the cost of diagnosis and care would ease the financial and psychological stress, that adds to the physical pain of endometriosis.

Endometriosis is more than just painful periods—it's a condition that affects every aspect of life, from career opportunities to mental well-being. Breaking the silence surrounding endometriosis requires not only raising awareness but also fostering an environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and advocate for their needs. By amplifying the voices of those affected by endometriosis and challenging misconceptions, we can work towards a future where no one suffers in silence.

If you are curious about your pain levels and period symptoms, consult with one of our doctors if you have questions around your health, symptoms and pain. We provide available resources for you to discover concerns around your health, discreetly.

Speak to an expert 

Hati Health is a digital platform for women, providing on-demand access to products and services, including telehealth, symptom checking, holistic wellness plans and education.

We believe that being able to talk openly about women's healthcare and bringing appropriate solutions will inspire women to achieve their fullest potential in their personal and professional lives.