WOMEN diagnosed with endometriosis earn less on average, according to landmark research published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

In its analysis of 50,000 individuals, ONS found there to be a “statistically significant” average decrease in monthly earnings among women aged 25 to 54 years after they were diagnosed with the condition.

Among those in paid work, wages decreased by £56 per month on average in the four to five years after diagnosis, compared with the two years prior. This rose to £130 when also taking into account those not in paid employment.

The probability of being in paid work “statistically significantly decreased” by 2.7 per cent four to five years after diagnosis, the study found.

It also suggested that after diagnosis, women in work may be taking lower-paying jobs or working fewer hours.

About one in 10 women in Britain suffer from the condition, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue, as well as depression, anxiety, and infertility.

A survey by Endometriosis UK found that 47 per cent of women had visited their GP 10 or more times with symptoms before receiving a diagnosis. 

The charity’s CEO Emma Cox said: “Those with endometriosis symptoms shouldn’t have to worry about losing their job, having to change career, or feel restricted in the types of work they can do.

“As well as employers understanding endometriosis, we need the NHS to speed up diagnosis and access to treatments, and more research investment to further understand the impact of the disease and find new treatments.”

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “Our elective reform plan sets out how the NHS will meet the 18-week waiting time target, meaning earlier diagnoses and treatment for gynaecological conditions such as endometriosis.”