Medical Misogyny Ignored My Pain, Says Patient

A woman identified as Rachel from Hertford has spoken out about her experience of severe pain, which she believes was undiagnosed due to "medical misogyny." She reported that health professionals dismissed her symptoms, urging her to "just get on with it."

An indentation noted during a colonoscopy escalated into significant pain and a visible mound in her abdomen. Initial hospital visits and scans did not lead to a correct diagnosis, with suggestions ranging from ovarian cysts to inflammatory bowel disease, none of which were acted upon effectively.

Rachel eventually sought private treatment, which confirmed a diagnosis of adenomyosis, a painful uterine condition. She has since engaged with her local MP and met with Health Secretary Wes Streeting to highlight the systemic issues in women's healthcare.

The Department of Health acknowledged that the NHS has "left women and girls down for too long" and is working on a renewed Women's Health Strategy, including measures like introducing a menopause question into NHS Health Checks and cutting gynaecological waiting lists.