From Molly-Mae to Whoopi Goldberg: Endometriosis battles

Molly-Mae Hague, Emma Bunton, Alexa Chung, Amy Schumer, Chrissy Teigen, Susan Sarandon, Dolly Parton, Cyndi Lauper, Whoopi Goldberg… the list is endless. All these women have carved out successful, high-profile careers but as “Endo Warriors” all of them have sadly had to endure excruciating pain on a monthly basis. Each of these celebrities has spoken openly about their battles with endometriosis – a condition that according to Endometriosis UK, affects 1 in 10 women. That’s a total of 176 million people worldwide. But despite the fact it affects such a large proportion of the population, there is a lot we still don’t know about the condition.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition that causes cells similar to those found in the lining of the uterus to grow in other parts of the body. These areas break down and bleed during a period, but they are unable to leave the body. We still don’t know for sure what causes it but experts suggest that hormones or immune factors may play a role.

What are the most common signs and symptoms of endometriosis?

Everyone is different, therefore the condition can affect people in different ways. However, some of the most common signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Painful periods
• Heavy periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Pain when urinating or having a bowel movement
• Pain in the pelvic area or lower back
• Fatigue
• Infertility

The problem is that many of the symptoms listed above are also symptoms of other conditions such as adenomyosis, fibroids, irritable bowel syndrome and pelvic inflammatory disease. Plus, there is currently no blood test for endometriosis and it is not always detectable on scans. This means that unfortunately many women suffer for years until they finally get their diagnosis. In fact, research shows it takes an average of 8 years 10 months from the first GP visit to get a diagnosis.

Is there a cure for endometriosis?

Sadly not. At the moment, the condition is managed with painkillers and the combined contraceptive pill. Some patients can also be referred for surgery to remove areas of endometriosis which can provide some relief.

Speak to a GP that understands

Here at YourGP, we understand that endometriosis can have a huge impact on a person’s life – affecting everything from their homelife and relationships, to their career and future family prospects. We also understand how frustrating it can be when others don’t take the condition seriously. Many patients come to us after being made to feel like they were being “fobbed off” by other doctors who wrongly insist that painful periods are just part and parcel of being a woman. This is not the case at YourGP. We believe in taking a holistic approach, and we can work with you to find solutions that help bring relief. We can advise on lifestyle choices such as changes to diet, exercise and stress management, for example, which can make all the difference to some patients.

Book your appointment today using our simple online booking system. Or you can email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 381 0322 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you. We’re here to help you, and until there is finally a cure, we will continue to raise awareness and push for further research.