Emma Barnett, the BBC presenter, has reached the absolute end of her tether. In her new documentary, Emma Barnett: Fighting Endometriosis, she provides unflinching insights into a condition that feels like 'someone taking a drill to your organs'. Endometriosis, which involves cells similar to those lining the uterus growing elsewhere in the body, has no cure. The only available treatments are hormones, such as the contraceptive pill, or surgery, including a total hysterectomy. Yet, even these do not guarantee permanent relief.
The Reality of Endometriosis
Barnett, now 41, is determined to confront viewers with the constant struggle that belies her professional achievements and family life. She records candid video diaries in her pyjamas, unable to get out of bed. One in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK have endometriosis, yet it takes an average of nine years to get a diagnosis. This delay makes sufferers seriously question their perception of pain. Barnett interviews Mada, who was misdiagnosed with appendicitis, IBS, and PMS over the years. Mada allows cameras to document her laparoscopy, revealing how endometriosis can glue women's insides together. When she is told the operation confirms the cause of her pain, she cries with relief that she is 'not crazy.'
The Battle for Recognition
Part of the battle is getting diagnosed, but recognition does not make symptoms more bearable. Barnett meets Chloe, 26, whose desperation forced her to pay for surgery in Dubai and then request a hysterectomy in the UK. Like actress Lena Dunham in her memoir Famesick, Chloe says the severity of her pain means she would not have the capacity to care for a child. Barnett, who has two children via IVF (endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility), is considering the same extreme remedy due to worsening symptoms.
Funding and Medical Misogyny
Barnett visits the University of Edinburgh's dedicated endometriosis research team and quizzes Dr Lucy Whitaker on why there have been so few advances in treatment. The answer is a lack of funding, which Barnett suggests is because endometriosis does not kill anyone. However, it costs the UK economy £12.5bn a year through women leaving the workforce. Whitaker believes this economic angle is better for influencing policymakers. Barnett greets this insight with a sardonic smile.
The documentary also features a chat with Wes Streeting, then health secretary, who is sympathetic and cites a family member diagnosed after 21 years of pain. He admits to the medical misogyny at the heart of our society. Yet Barnett insists on substantial assurances, which he gives. However, Streeting is no longer in the job, and the documentary cannot end on an optimistic note: Barnett and millions remain in agony.
A Necessary Documentary
As Mada's doctor says, 'Pain is such a subjective symptom. It's really difficult to quantify.' This is true, but it feels like an excuse. As figures like Barnett and Dunham articulate their symptoms, the medical establishment may no longer rely on it. Emma Barnett: Fighting Endometriosis aired on BBC Two and is on iPlayer.
