Elaine Watson is demanding an end to 'medical misogyny' after her daughter Nicola Thyne, 36, died by suicide in January 2024 following years of dismissed endometriosis pain. Watson is now campaigning for 'Nicola's Law', which would mandate women's health training for all medical professionals.
Nicola's Suffering and Dismissal by Doctors
Nicola, from Bathgate, experienced painful periods from a young age but was repeatedly told she had 'bad periods' by doctors. She was only diagnosed with stage four endometriosis at age 34, after her bladder had attached to her uterus. Her mother Elaine said: 'She repeatedly sought help as her pain worsened, even attending A&E several times, but all she got was medication.'
In January 2024, Nicola was told her surgery was not urgent and faced an 18-month wait. She died the following week. Elaine stated: 'She told me many times that she wasn't being listened to by doctors and she couldn't continue living with the pain. She was failed by the NHS.'
The Petition for 'Nicola's Law'
A petition launched by family member June Smillie, head of charity Nicola’s Supporting Women, has gathered over 25,000 signatures, reaching the Scottish Parliament. It calls for mandatory training for GPs and NHS staff on women's reproductive health, including endometriosis and chronic gynaecological illnesses.
Smillie said: 'Far too many women have lived with chronic pain for years because they don't know where to turn. They tell us they feel dismissed, misdiagnosed or left to struggle.'
Impact on Nicola's Daughter Holly
Nicola's daughter Holly, 16, has also been diagnosed with stage one endometriosis. Elaine believes this early diagnosis only happened because of her complaints after Nicola's death. She said: 'I cannot stand by and let this happen to her daughter Holly, or watch any other family lose their loved one like we have.'
Endometriosis Diagnosis Delays in Scotland
Faye Farthing, Head of Communications and Campaigns at Endometriosis UK, said: 'Currently, the average time to get a diagnosis in Scotland is 10 years and 2 months - the highest in the UK. We are calling for the Scottish government to prioritise reducing diagnosis and wait times.'
RCGP Scotland Vice Chair Dr Katie Cathrow added: 'Long waits can have a significant impact on patients' quality of life. The Scottish Government must work to improve a system in which too many patients are left waiting extended periods for surgery.'
Official Responses
Dr Tracey Gillies, Medical Director of NHS Lothian, expressed condolences and noted that endometriosis is complex and requires specialist care. She highlighted collaboration with the University of Edinburgh for research.
Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: 'I extend my deepest sympathies. We are taking clear action including delivering Phase Two of our Women’s Health Plan, which includes ambitions to reduce waiting times for gynaecology.' She confirmed the government would respond to the petition in due course.
Elaine Watson concluded: 'Endometriosis took it all away from her. Now we are doing everything we can so others don't have to face what we're going through.'
