Endometriosis Costs Women Their Jobs

Endometriosis, a condition where womb-like tissue grows outside the uterus, significantly impacts women's careers, according to a new report.

Hayley Locksley, diagnosed at 24 after years of pain, experienced questioning from employers and ultimately lost her job due to sickness absence, now using a walking stick.

Nearly half of women with endometriosis have lost income, 97% work through severe pain, and 28% have left jobs, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Endometriosis inquiry found.

Surgeon Dr. Rebecca Mallick stated that women shouldn't choose between health and careers, demanding action beyond awareness.

Carla Cressy, diagnosed a decade ago, suffered severe progression, leading to hysterectomy and bladder reconstruction. She now runs The Endometriosis Foundation, advocating for workplace support.

Faye Ramsey, diagnosed last year after a decade of pain, also shared her struggles as a teaching assistant, highlighting the need for endometriosis-friendly employers and better protection during probation.

The inquiry revealed 94% of surveyed women felt employers lacked understanding, and half received no workplace adjustments.

Despite these challenges, businesses are reportedly becoming more aware of women's health issues and seeking ways to support employees without hindering their careers.

The women affected hope for greater employer understanding, dignity, and support to remain in work, emphasizing that each absence may hide a larger story.