Living With Endometriosis In Camden:2024

This report summarises the work of Healthwatch Camden’s Living with Endometriosis project, which explored the experiences of residents living with the chronic condition. The research focused on the physical, emotional, and professional impacts of endometriosis and gathered feedback on GP& Hospital experiences as well as support needs.

The team used in-depth interviews to explore the lived experiences of those managing this chronic condition. They spoke to sixteen women between the ages of 18-49years old, who lived and/or worked in Camden, and who had either a formal diagnosis of endometriosis or were awaiting one from their doctors.

Findings:

Many participants faced long waits for a diagnosis, prolonging distress and frustration. Care was often fragmented, with limited access to specialists. The chronic nature of endometriosis took a toll on mental health, with minimal emotional support available. At work, participants encountered stigma and a lack of accommodations.:

The report makes 12 recommendations, including: 

Making diagnosis pathways faster and more efficient, with better recognition of symptoms by GP's. Specialist services should be expanded to provide tailored treatment. Greater access to counselling and MH support to address emotional and psychological challenge of living with the condition.