Endometriosis is a debilitating chronic condition affecting millions of women, yet its financial impact is rarely discussed. A new analysis by the Health Research Group provides critical insight into how an endometriosis diagnosis affects women’s earnings and employment status in England. Covering data from April 2016 to December 2022, the findings reveal a sustained decrease in monthly pay and a decline in the likelihood of being in paid employment up to five years after diagnosis.
A Long-Term Financial Decline
The study tracked changes in monthly earnings for women aged 25 to 54 before and after their endometriosis diagnosis.
The key findings were striking:
A drop in pay: In the first three months following diagnosis, there was an initial dip in earnings. While pay briefly returned to pre-diagnosis levels within a year, a long-term decline followed. By four to five years post-diagnosis, women in paid work experienced an average decrease of £56 per month, while the overall drop—including those who left the workforce—reached £130 per month.
Employment status decline: The probability of being in paid employment fell by 2.7 percentage points in the four to five years after diagnosis, indicating that some women left the workforce entirely.
Lower-paying jobs or reduced hours: Among women who remained employed, the decline in monthly earnings suggests they may have taken lower-paying roles or reduced their working hours due to their health.
Why Does Endometriosis Impact Careers?
Endometriosis can cause severe pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that make full-time employment challenging.
Many women struggle with:
Missed workdays: Chronic pain and the need for medical treatment can lead to frequent absences.
Reduced productivity: Persistent symptoms can make it difficult to maintain performance levels.
Career stagnation: Women with endometriosis may be overlooked for promotions or advancement due to their health struggles.
Workplace stigma: The lack of understanding about endometriosis can result in limited support from employers, making it harder to request flexible working arrangements.
A Call for Workplace Change
These findings highlight the urgent need for workplace policies that accommodate employees with chronic conditions like endometriosis. Flexible working hours, paid sick leave, and employer awareness programs could help women remain in the workforce while managing their condition.
As more data emerges on the economic impact of endometriosis, it is crucial that policymakers and employers take action. Women's health should not come at the cost of financial stability.
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