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March is Endometriosis awareness month, so there is no better time to learn and spread awareness about this condition.
One in 10 women and those assigned female at birth in the UK have endometriosis, according to Endometriosis UK.
Awareness of this condition is still growing and so on average it takes just over eight years to get a diagnosis of endometriosis in the UK, the organisation also notes.
It is important to firstly understand what endometriosis is.
Endometriosis is a condition where the same type of tissue that lines the womb also grows in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
This tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with the menstrual cycle. It can cause pain, swelling, and scarring, often resulting in various other symptoms.
The most common symptoms of endometriosis can include pelvic pain, pain during sex, painful and/or heavy periods, extreme fatigue, and difficulty conceiving.
Endometriosis in the workplace
Endometriosis can affect a significant proportion of a workforce, given that one in 10 assigned females at birth can suffer with this condition.
The pain caused by endometriosis can be severe and long-lasting. Combining this with fatigue, could have an effect on productivity at work.
Individuals may feel nervous about sharing a health problem at work or asking for help, being open and encouraging open conversations may help employees to feel comfortable to speak up and ask for help.
Dealing with endometriosis can be challenging, so it would also help if employers are aware of the condition, it could encourage individuals to seek support earlier.
Five ways that people with endometriosis can be supported at work:
- Providing a listening ear for emotional support
- Assisting with daily tasks when someone is struggling with fatigue
- Maintaining open communication between partners, friends, and relatives – asking questions like ‘How can I better support you?’ and ‘Is there anything I do or say that isn’t helpful?’
- Offering flexible working options such as working from home during a painful period and necessary time off work
- Recognising by employers that endometriosis is a chronic and often very challenging condition to manage
Endometriosis and mental health
Endometriosis can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and daily activities.
It could impact everything from relationships and fitness to work productivity and mental health.
The pain associated with endometriosis could lead to depression or anxiety, especially if it is long-term.
Additionally, the stress from a likely delayed diagnosis and potential concerns about fertility can be difficult to manage.
Treatment
The treatments for endometriosis can also affect a person’s life.
Over-the-counter pain relief may work for some. Others might require stronger painkillers or hormone medication, both of which come with side effects.
Many people may also need multiple surgeries to remove endometriosis.
If you have any concerns, reach out to your GP to talk to them in detail about your symptoms.
In the workplace it is so important for employers to be aware of conditions that affect their employees and access tools to support them in having conversations with individuals suffering with endometriosis.
To learn more about the condition and how to support, please see our Academy short video here: Bupa Academy Bitesize: Supporting employees experiencing endometriosis
For more information and support for individuals suffering with endometriosis, please see some resources below:
Supporting employees with endometriosis: a guide for managers