This week's VetChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn is Alexandra Taylor, registered Veterinary Nurse and BVNA President. Alexandra also runs her own company ‘The Cat Nurse’ where she offers CPD about feline nursing and behaviour.

In this episode, Kathryn and Alexandra discuss the topic of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis. Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Adenomyosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. The displaced tissue continues to act normally — thickening, breaking down and bleeding — during each menstrual cycle.

Alexandra was diagnosed around 35 years old and explains her experience with both conditions. They discuss how common it is to be affected, the impacts it may have on mental health such as learning to live with fertility problems, and how Alexandra now hopes to help others who are also struggling with either condition.

If you would like further information, you can read our blog post on this topic here.