Endometriosis affects around 190 million people across the globe. This is 10% of those with a uterus. Yet, 74% of men don’t know what endometriosis is, nor do 62% of young women.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition which causes cells similar to those that line the uterus to grow outside the uterus, leading to inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation. Symptoms vary depending on where the endometriosis is growing.
Menstrual health conditions like endometriosis have been ignored and dismissed as “women’s problems” for far too long. The chronic pain experienced by those with endometriosis cannot be ignored. Those suffering from severe pain, vomiting, or fainting due to endometriosis should not be told that it’s “normal” period pain or that it’s something they will outgrow. We need to fight the stigma that endometriosis symptoms aren’t ‘normal’.
The stigma can cause individuals with endometriosis to feel ashamed, embarrassed, and alone, leading to a lack of understanding and support from friends, family, and healthcare providers. This can make it difficult for individuals to get the help and support they need to manage their condition. The stigma can also prevent individuals from seeking a diagnosis and treatment, leading to a delay in care and potentially worsening of their symptoms. Fighting the stigma surrounding endometriosis can help to raise awareness and understanding of the condition, leading to better support and care for individuals living with endometriosis.
This is why we at Natracare are proud Endometriosis Friendly Employers.
What does it mean to be an Endometriosis Friendly Employer?
Being an Endometriosis Friendly Employer means we provide support and accommodation for employees who have endometriosis or are directly affected by the condition. This can include providing flexible work arrangements, such as the option to work from home or to have a modified schedule, to allow employees to manage their symptoms and seek medical treatment. It can also include providing education and resources on endometriosis to managers and colleagues, so that they can better understand and support employees with the condition. Additionally, an Endometriosis Friendly Employer may offer resources such as support groups or counseling services to help employees manage their condition.
As part of the Endometriosis UK Friendly Employer Scheme, we also have an appointed Endometriosis Champion in the office.
What is an Endometriosis Champion?
Endometriosis Champions do not need to have personal experience with the condition or be experts on the topic. Instead, what is important is a willingness to learn about endometriosis and the ability to openly discuss the condition and related issues.
The role of an Endometriosis Champion includes:
- Developing an understanding of endometriosis and how it may affect employees.
- Being a point of contact for employees who are experiencing issues at work due to endometriosis.
- Knowing where to refer colleagues for additional information and support.
- Being aware of HR policies and procedures that could benefit employees with endometriosis.
In some cases, an Endometriosis Champion may also:
- Serve as a point of contact for managers who have employees with endometriosis on their team.
- Display information leaflets and posters.
- Organise awareness events to educate colleagues about endometriosis and raise awareness of the condition.
At Natracare we are proud to be creating an inclusive workspace for all, this is just one way we can try to make the work environment more welcoming to those with chronic illnesses.
