New research published today (5 February 2025) by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows the negative impact endometriosis can have on earnings for those with the disease - The impact of an endometriosis diagnosis on monthly employee pay and employee status, England: April 2016 to December 2022.
Recognition by the Government and ONS on the significance of endometriosis and the woeful lack of data about the disease's various impacts, including on work and pay, is an important step forward in enabling those with the disease to thrive at work and live full lives.
Along with the NHS Confederation's recent report on the benefits for the economy of investing in women's health services and other emerging research, this publication builds the case for better support for those with endometriosis. Meanwhile, Endometriosis UK continues to campaign for improved rights for those with endometriosis in the new Employment Rights Bill.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, says: "This new research puts an important spotlight on the challenges faced by those with endometriosis at work, and is a step towards enabling those with the disease to thrive in their careers. Those with endometriosis symptoms shouldn’t have to worry about losing their job, having to change career, or feel restricted in the types of work they can do.
“Symptoms vary person to person, from mild or no symptoms to very severe. We need employers to understand endometriosis and overcome myths and embarrassment about periods and menstrual health, and support their employees. Our Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme shows that where workplaces provide support, understanding and reasonable adjustments for endometriosis – as they should for any medical condition – they can retain talented employees.
”As well as employers understanding endometriosis, we need the NHS to speed up diagnosis and access to treatments, and more research investment to further understand the impact of the disease and find new treatments. We also eagerly await the Government’s response to the Women and Equalities committee report that recommends amending the Employment Rights Bill to include those with endometriosis and other menstrual health conditions - in line with Endometriosis UK's own campaign."
Endometriosis UK supported ONS in creating this data, as well as a previous dataset, released in December 2024, looking at the characteristics of those with an endometriosis diagnosis.
