Christiana Hansen, a 49-year-old from Chatham, has launched a campaign for a specialized wellbeing hub in Medway dedicated to women’s and girls’ reproductive health conditions. Hansen was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2023, approximately five years after initially experiencing symptoms. She manages her condition with daily medication taken at the highest dose, consuming it two to four times per day to help alleviate pain.
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women and occurs when cells similar to those lining the womb develop in other parts of the body, potentially affecting organs such as the bladder and bowel. Hansen reported feeling dismissed during medical consultations, with healthcare providers characterizing her condition as a normal female experience. She emphasizes that the associated pain is not a normal condition and advocates for greater awareness among women and girls experiencing similar symptoms.
Jessica Lewis, 25, from Broadstairs, was diagnosed with endometriosis two years ago following surgery in 2024. Lewis first experienced symptoms at age 14 and reports visiting her doctor 22 times before receiving a diagnosis. She describes the condition’s impact as affecting her daily activities and quality of life, noting that it has changed how she approaches everyday plans.
Both women are calling for increased funding for endometriosis diagnosis and treatment, as well as enhanced training for medical professionals. Tristan Osborne, the local MP for Chatham and Aylesford, has indicated support for establishing a dedicated wellbeing hub and stated he would work with local councils toward this goal. The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the situation as unacceptable, committing to reducing gynaecology waiting lists and expanding surgical hubs. The department also announced plans to prioritize endometriosis through NHS Online, a new digital service offering expert care remotely.
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