Pride, Pain, and Power: Supporting Our LGBTQ+ Endo Warriors

At Endometriosis Canada, we believe everyone deserves access to respectful, informed, and compassionate care. During Pride Month, we’re taking a moment to recognize and honour the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals living with endometriosis. While the disease itself is already difficult, LGBTQ+ folks often face extra barriers, in healthcare, at work or school, and even within their support systems.

Being Taken Seriously Can Be Harder

Many LGBTQ+ people report not being believed or taken seriously by healthcare providers. If a patient doesn't fit the traditional idea of who “should” have endometriosis (typically cisgender women), their pain can be dismissed or misdiagnosed. This delay in diagnosis is not just frustrating, it’s harmful.

Gender Dysphoria and Medical Appointments

For transgender and non-binary people, pelvic exams, gynecological visits, and surgery discussions can be emotionally painful and triggering. Some avoid seeking care entirely due to fear of being misgendered or misunderstood.

Lack of Inclusive Information

Most educational materials, forms, and discussions about endometriosis assume a cisgender, heterosexual experience. This leaves many LGBTQ+ individuals feeling unseen, isolated, and unsupported.

Discrimination in Healthcare Settings

Whether it’s being referred to incorrectly, facing homophobic or transphobic attitudes, or simply being told “we don’t know much about that,” LGBTQ+ patients often feel like they have to fight harder just to get basic care.

So What Can We Do?

Listen and validate LGBTQ+ voices in the endo community

Push for inclusive, affirming care and provider education

Use inclusive language in our materials and spaces

Celebrate the strength it takes to live with endo and be yourself in a world that doesn’t always understand

To our LGBTQ+ Endo Warriors: we see you, we support you, and we’re proud to stand with you.