Don’t Suffer in Silence: Almost 1 in 3 Women Retreat from Daily Life Due to Gynaecological Symptoms

Are you struggling with heavy or painful periods? Are you putting up with pelvic or abdominal pain that is preventing you from living your life to the full? You’re not alone.

Around a third (33%) of women in the UK experience gynaecological symptoms but have not sought medical help, according to new survey data commissioned by Vista Health.

Untreated gynaecological symptoms affect not only your physical health but your mental health and lifestyle too. Over half (51%) of women enduring gynaecological symptoms say it makes them avoid intimacy, while almost half (47%) say it prevents them from exercising as much as they would like.

These symptoms also have a social cost with around 4 in 10 women (42%) saying they have skipped social plans because of their symptoms. It, therefore, is not surprising that almost half of women (46%) feel anxious or depressed about their symptoms. Moreover, 1 in 5 (21%) have never spoken to anyone about how their symptoms are affecting their life.

You don’t need to suffer in silence anymore. With fast, easy access to Vista Health’s Women’s Health Assessments, you can get to the bottom of your gynaecological symptoms and take the steps you need to feel better.

But first, why are women not seeking help for symptoms that are having such a big impact on their lives?

Why Many Women Do Not Seek Help

With around 1 in 3 women not seeking help for their gynaecological symptoms, we wanted to find out why.

Sadly, almost half of women (48%) believed their symptoms were not severe enough. What’s more, 1 in 5 (21%) believed their experiences were normal and not anything that needed treatment, while almost half (47%) were embarrassed by their symptoms.

Dr Reem Hasan, GP and Chief Medical Officer at Vista Health, commented, "These findings reflect a quiet but pervasive reality for many women. These are not isolated stories. They form a broader pattern of women adjusting to symptoms they should not have to endure."

She went on to emphasise that, "We need to increase awareness and ensure easier access to reassurance or diagnosis.”

So, what signs that your gynaecological health needs some attention should you look out for?

The 10 Symptoms Women Should Not Ignore 

The sooner your gynaecological symptoms are investigated, the sooner you can get treatment to avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort. Here are 10 symptoms to have checked out: 

1. Heavy or prolonged periods

If you need to change your pad or tampon every 1–2 hours, this can be a sign of gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis. 

2. Severe menstrual cramps 

While it is normal to experience period cramps, if the pain worsens over time or interferes with your daily life, this may be a sign of an underlying condition.

3. Pain during sex 

This can be a sign of infections, endometriosis or vaginal atrophy (when the walls of your vagina become thinner, drier and inflamed).

4. Unusual vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal but if you notice changes in the colour, smell or amount of discharge, you may have an infection.

5. Bleeding between periods or after sex

This may be a sign that you have a hormonal imbalance. However, it can also be a sign of cervical cancer, womb cancer or endometrial cancer. 

6. Persistent bloating 

Bloating is not always due to a problem with your gut. It can also be a sign of a problem with your ovaries, such as ovarian cysts, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and ovarian cancer.  

7. Unexplained fatigue 

If you’re feeling tired all the time, this may be related to anaemia from heavy bleeding during your periods or chronic (long-term) pain.

8. Lower back pain 

If this is a recurring pain or accompanied by other pelvic symptoms, this may be a sign of conditions such as adenomyosis and endometriosis. 

9. Mood swings or emotional changes 

This can be a sign of an abnormal hormonal change such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

10. Genital itching, burning or irritation 

Persistent discomfort in your genital (vulvar) area can be a sign of an infection or a skin condition. 

How Vista Health Is Helping 

With our comprehensive Women’s Health Assessment, including targeted blood tests and a pelvic ultrasound scan, you can uncover the cause of your symptoms without delay.

“This is not about over-investigating but about empowering women with answers before symptoms escalate,” says Dr Reem Hasan.

You don’t need to wait for a referral from a doctor but instead can self-refer for speedy access. With our clinics located nationwide, it has never been easier to find the support you need to get your health back on track. 

Take back control of your health

Don’t waste another minute enduring symptoms that prevent you from enjoying your life. Book your Women’s Health Assessment today.