Medical trauma is more common than we think, and rarely talked about. In this post, Matilda psychologist Sophie Callen explores what medical trauma is, how it might show up in your life, and offers grounding tools, self-advocacy language, and healing strategies for moving forward.

Bladder and bowel dysfunction are frequently under-recognised components of the endometriosis experience, yet they are often among the most distressing.

Navigating uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of the endometriosis journey, especially when you’ve gone through the process of a laparoscopy and come out the other side without a clear diagnosis.

Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming- there’s so much to think about, both physically and emotionally. That’s where prehab and rehab come in. These simple, evidence-based strategies can make a real difference to how you recover and feel after surgery.

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.

If you live with endometriosis or persistent pelvic pain, you probably already know that pain doesn’t follow a neat, predictable schedule. Some days are manageable. Others are overwhelming. And many days fall somewhere in between.

Living with endometriosis can feel isolating. That’s why we created the Matilda Circle- a supportive, validating community where you’re seen, heard, and never alone.

The words we use in endometriosis care can either build trust or cause harm. In this blog, clinician Jo shares how subtle shifts in language can help avoid medical gaslighting, validate lived experience, and foster safer, more compassionate care for people with endometriosis.