Endometriosis: Everything You Need To Know
What Is Endometriosis?
At Vee, our mission has always been to break the stigma around femme health and the many concerns, conditions, and chronic illnesses that come with it. Endometriosis is one of the biggest—and most misunderstood—of them all. So, we’re talking about it loudly and openly, cutting through the confusion and getting straight to the facts.
Endometriosis develops when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. Instead of staying in its designated area, this rogue tissue spreads to other parts of the body—like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, cervix, bowel, bladder, or rectum—where it thickens and breaks down during each cycle. The catch? Unlike regular period shedding, this tissue has nowhere to go, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and a lot of pain.
It’s a topic that’s especially close to our founder Emma’s heart. As someone who has experienced endometriosis firsthand, Em is passionate about reducing the shame and confusion around the condition while helping the Vee community learn more about it.
So, let’s get into it—here are seven things you should (but might not) know about endometriosis.
1. Endometriosis is way more common than you think
One in seven women in Australia has endometriosis. Let that sink in. That means in your group chats, office, or gym class, at least one person is likely dealing with the reality of this condition—whether you know it or not.
Despite how common it is, endometriosis is often dismissed, misdiagnosed, or downplayed. Because it’s not always visible and doesn’t leave a physical trace, many suffer in silence for years before getting answers.
2. It’s a chronic condition - and a painful one
Endometriosis isn’t just a “bad period.” It’s an unpredictable, often debilitating condition that can affect day-to-day life. One day, you’re fine; the next, you’re doubled over with cramping so intense that even your favourite knock-off drink, big work meeting, or long-awaited night out takes a backseat.
And it’s not just about period pain. According to experts, endometriosis can cause pelvic pain, lower back pain, pain during or after sex, painful urination, bloating, nausea, constipation, and spotting between periods.
3. Diagnosis can be a long and frustrating road
On average, it takes about six and a half years to get diagnosed with endometriosis. And, unfortunately, that was the case for our founder, Emma. She was officially diagnosed after her second surgery - four years ago.
Why does it take so long? Endo symptoms vary a lot from person to person, making it tricky to identify. The only way to confirm a diagnosis is through laparoscopy - a surgical procedure where a tiny camera (laparoscope) is inserted into the abdomen to check for endo tissue. It’s done under general anaesthetic and typically involves one to four small incisions near the belly button.
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth talking to a healthcare professional. We’re not about fear-mongering (and the internet is never the place to self-diagnose), but knowing what’s not normal is the first step toward getting answers.
4. Endometriosis comes with a hefty price tag
Living with endometriosis isn’t just physically draining—it’s expensive. Studies estimate that managing endo costs Australians an average of $30,000 per year.
Between countless doctors’ appointments, medications, treatments, and time off work, the financial impact of endometriosis can be overwhelming. And since many sufferers go years without a diagnosis, those costs stack up long before they even know what they’re dealing with.
If you’re curious about the numbers, Endometriosis Australia has some eye-opening research on the economic impact of endo and undiagnosed pelvic pain.
5. Endometriosis can affect fertility - but not always
One of the biggest concerns surrounding endometriosis is its potential impact on fertility. Research suggests that people with endo may have a higher likelihood of fertility challenges, but it doesn’t automatically mean pregnancy is off the table.
Endometriosis can be found in reproductive organs, the bowel, the bladder, and even—though more rarely—the lungs and brain. While severe cases can make conception trickier, not everyone with endometriosis struggles to conceive, and only a small percentage require IVF, according to Endometriosis Australia.
If fertility is a concern, speaking to a healthcare provider can help you understand your options.
6. There’s no way to prevent endometriosis
Unlike other conditions where prevention is an option (hello, SPF and Vee’s breathable bamboo undies), endometriosis isn’t something you can stop from happening.
Unfortunately, there’s also no cure.
7. Managing endometriosis looks different for everyone
Since there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, managing endometriosis often involves a mix of different approaches. Experts suggest:
- Pain relief medications – Over-the-counter options might help some, but not everyone finds them effective.
- Hormone therapy – Birth control and other hormonal treatments can help regulate symptoms, though they don’t work for everyone.
- Surgery – Laparoscopic excision surgery can remove endometriosis tissue, but it’s not always a permanent fix.
- Lifestyle adjustments – Some people find that dietary changes, exercise, and stress management techniques help improve symptoms.
Ultimately, every person’s endo journey is different. What works for one person might not work for another, which is why it’s so important to have access to the right support, research, and treatment options.
At Vee, we believe endometriosis research deserves more funding, more awareness, and more action. Because no one should have to suffer in silence.
Struggling with Endo Symptoms? Vee’s Diagnosis Grant Could Help
If you’ve been struggling with endo-like symptoms—painful periods, heavy bleeding, abdominal swelling, painful sex, exhaustion, fertility challenges—and getting answers feels impossible, we hear you. From March 3rd - March 24th, Vee is running the Endometriosis Diagnosis Grant, a $5,000 fund designed to help women access the specialist care they need to get closer to a diagnosis.
With endo taking an average of 6.5 years to diagnose, we’re committed to changing the status quo. Our founder, Emma, lives with stage 4 endo, so we know firsthand how frustrating and costly the journey can be. That’s why we’re offering five women a $1,000 grant to help cover medical expenses like specialist appointments and ultrasounds—because no one should have to wait years for answers. If this could help you, check your eligibility and apply now. And if you know someone who could benefit, share this link: https://veeunderwear.com/pages/endometriosis-grant.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THE GRANT
A Final Note
We’re not doctors. If you have any concerns about endometriosis, your best bet is to talk to a specialist.
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