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.

How can we improve women's health outcomes in regional WA? We spoke to Ellen Smith from the Triple R Network about access, endo care, and local connection.

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.

Recovery from endometriosis surgery is about more than wound healing. It’s a delicate process of physical, emotional, and hormonal adjustment- especially in the first few weeks.

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.

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.