Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK, which shows just how close to home this condition actually is. But, despite this condition being so common, it is still misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or even completely overlooked in healthcare, leaving so many women struggling for years without any definitive answers. And March marks the start of Endometriosis Awareness Month.
At The Medical Law Partnership, we are choosing to take this month to raise awareness not just about the condition itself, but also to help raise awareness about the failures in the care you receive.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of the uterus. Most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or pelvic tissues, and this tissue then behaves like the lining inside the uterus and causes inflammation, pain, and sometimes scar tissue. The NHS has a specific page which details everything related to endometriosis which you can read to find out more here.
Why Can Diagnosis Take So Long for Endometriosis
One of the biggest challenges with endometriosis, is that it can take years to get a proper diagnosis. And during that time, symptoms can worsen, pain can become overwhelming, and for some fertility can be affected. Because of this many people feel like they are not being listened to, especially when their symptoms are just dismissed as “bad periods.”
When Delay and Misdiagnosis Becomes Negligence
At the Medical Law Partnership, we specialise in helping people in England and Wales who have been let down by the healthcare system, including those with endometriosis.
Some examples of failures in care our clients have come to us for include:
- Symptoms being repeatedly ignored or dismissed
- Referrals to specialists being delayed
- Tests or results not being acted on
- Progression of the condition that could have been avoided with proper care
It’s when these mistakes cause harm, that you may be entitled to seek compensation. This compensation can cover not just the physical and emotional pain you’ve suffered, but also financial losses incurred like treatment costs or any time off work. You can read more about making a medical negligence claim for endometriosis here.
Why Awareness for Endometriosis Matters
Endometriosis Awareness Month isn’t just about talking about the symptoms of the condition; it’s about recognising that people’s pain matters and that failures in care should never be ignored.
We’re here to support anyone affected by medical negligence at The Medical Law Partnership. We will listen to your story and point you in the right direction so you can get the justice you deserve. If you have experienced poor medical care related to endometriosis, you don’t have to face it alone. You can reach out to us today and together we can talk through your situation and see if you have a claim. Fill in our online enquiry form here or call us for free on 0800 014 7551. We’re here to help you move forward.