Endometriosis is a chronic condition which affects one in ten people with periods in the UK. However, endometriosis is notably difficult to diagnose, taking an average of eight years from the onset of symptoms according to Endometriosis UK and with patients often being misdiagnosed or dismissed by doctors while they continue to struggle with the symptoms.

In this episode of Periodically, hosts Sofia and Lottie sit down with Tiffany, a PhD student navigating academia while dealing with endometriosis. Listen as Tiff shares her journey and delves into the challenges, from managing physical symptoms and emotional strain to negotiating uncertainties around her PhD funding.

(1:17) Introduction to Endometriosis
(2:19) Tiff's experiences
(5:00) Managing symptoms and academic life
(8:33) Navigating university support
(13:30) Working through recovery
(21:30) How clinicians can help

About the hosts:
Sofia: My name is Sofia and I'm a fourth-year Chemistry student at Oxford. I am also the co-founder of The Oxford Period, a campaign for access to free period products across the University.

Lottie: Hiya, I am Lottie and I am in my fourth-year. I have really enjoyed working on this podcast, especially as I am interested in how we better support students with their studies in chemistry once they arrive at university here.

We'd like to thank the RSC Inclusion and Diversity Fund, the University of Oxford Chemistry Department, and the EPSRC-funded OxICFM CDT for supporting the podcast.