A Woman's Struggle with Endometriosis and the NHS Waiting List
Jade Devereux, a 23-year-old from Norfolk, has been battling severe period pain for years. She believes her symptoms may be linked to endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body. Despite her ongoing suffering, she has been on the waiting list for a specialist consultation for over a year.
Devereux recalls that her painful periods began during her school days. Over the years, she has visited doctors multiple times and has been prescribed various medications, including painkillers, anti-inflammatories, and even blood thinners. However, these treatments have not provided much relief. She often experiences intense pain during the first few days of her period, which forces her to take time off work each month.
“I am screaming with pain during the first couple of days of my period,” she said. “I have to take a few days off work every month because it is so unbearable. The pain is so bad that if I start my period while I’m asleep, it wakes me up, and I can’t sleep because of the pain.”
She also mentioned that the pain is so severe that it causes her to vomit. “It has been getting worse over the years, and I keep going back and forth to the doctors. I’ve even gone to A&E with the pain. I take so many painkillers just to get some relief.”
It was only after she started researching her symptoms online that she learned about endometriosis. Her friend’s comment that she didn’t experience period pain made her realize something was wrong. “I looked up my symptoms and found out about endometriosis. It sounded exactly like what I was going through.”
Despite being referred to a gynaecologist in August last year, Devereux is still waiting for an appointment. This delay has caused significant distress, both physically and emotionally. She now faces an investigation at work due to the number of days she has taken off. As a customer assistant, she needs two to three days off each month around her period, which is causing tension with her employer.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, leading to severe pain, heavy periods, and other complications. Symptoms can include:
- Severe period pain that interferes with daily activities
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain during urination or bowel movements
- Pelvic and lower back pain
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Extreme fatigue
- Difficulty conceiving
- Anxiety or depression
The condition can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, affecting her physical health, mental well-being, and personal relationships.
NHS Waiting Lists and Challenges
Devereux’s situation is not unique. Recent data reveals that almost half of the six million people needing treatment from the NHS in England have not received further care since joining a hospital waiting list. At the end of May, there were 7.36 million treatments waiting to be carried out, involving nearly 6.23 million patients.
MBI Health, a health data specialist, reported that approximately 2.99 million people are waiting for their first clinical contact. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to worsening symptoms and increased pressure on emergency services.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, emphasized the need for urgent action. “Nobody should be left to wait in limbo for so long for a diagnosis. Without a diagnosis, appropriate treatment and management options cannot be accessed, and symptoms can worsen.”
Efforts to Improve Care
The NHS has acknowledged the challenges and has made progress in reducing waiting lists. Since June 2024, waiting lists have decreased by more than 260,000. The Department of Health and Social Care has also taken steps to improve care for endometriosis patients, including updated guidance for faster diagnosis and treatment.
New treatments have been introduced this year, and the 10-Year Health Plan aims to reduce gynaecology waiting lists while providing personalized support through women’s health hubs.
For Devereux, the waiting continues. “I know there is something wrong, and I am convinced it is endometriosis. If I can be diagnosed, I might finally get the treatment I need. But I have been on the waiting list for a year, and the pain is killing me.”