Matilda Health’s Beyond the Pain event in Broome brought together community and clinicians to discuss endometriosis and pelvic pain. We explored the gaps in care, the importance of pre- and post-surgery support, and how digital programs can improve recovery and connection in regional Australia.

Some days, just getting to an appointment feels like a huge effort. When my pain is bad, even sitting in the car can be exhausting, and by the time I arrive, I’m often too tired to fully take in the information or ask all my questions. And if I can’t make the trip at all, it means waiting longer for answers and delaying the care I need.

Scars, bloating, and self-doubt- Anna shares how endometriosis shaped her body image and how she’s learning to love her body again, exactly as it is.

When it comes to endometriosis, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach and choosing to have surgery is a deeply personal decision. It’s not something I ever took lightly, and it’s not the only path to relief. But for me, at three different points in my journey, surgery felt like the right choice. Looking back, each of those decisions came from a place of wanting to protect my health and quality of life and I do not regret undergoing any of those procedures.

When you live with endometriosis or persistent pelvic pain, it’s easy to feel like your body is working against you- especially when people don’t often discuss the pelvic area. And then you get referred to Pelvic Physiotherapy, and have no idea what to expect!

Many clients arrive at their first Pelvic Physiotherapy session feeling anxious. Some are scared it’s going to hurt and others are worried that something about their vulva, labia, or vagina isn’t “normal.” I’ve lost count of how many people have nervously asked: “Is it okay down there?” or whispered, “Sorry, I haven’t waxed…”

So let’s discuss this and clear things up- with kindness, facts, and zero shame.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund, provided by the Western Australian Government Department of Health, and the Market Access Grant Scheme grant from the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation (now the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification). Their contributions helped us showcase our co-designed endometriosis surgery support program on the global stage at the World Congress on Endometriosis 2025.

I wanted to be the friend who said yes to every invite. The one who was always up for a spontaneous catch up or a last-minute trip. The one who could bounce back quickly, no matter what her body was going through.

Instead, I was constantly navigating a body I didn’t fully understand, symptoms I didn’t yet have language for, and a health system that often made me feel invisible. So, I learnt to perform—to act ‘normal’.

Travelling with endo? It’s absolutely possible. Yes, you can still live your best life- whether it’s cocktails by the beach or hot chocolates in the mountains. The key? A bit of prep, some handy tricks, and listening to your body every step of the way.

As a primary school sports teacher, my job requires me to be on the move — running games, demonstrating drills, and keeping up with a group of energetic kids every day. It’s a role I love deeply, but like many with endometriosis, I’ve had to learn how to navigate the physical demands of my job alongside the often unpredictable symptoms of a chronic condition.