BBC broadcaster Naga Munchetty has revealed that last month she fainted before going on air due to the 'overwhelming' pain caused by adenomyosis, a condition where uterine tissue grows into the muscular uterine wall. The 51-year-old host of BBC Breakfast and BBC 5 Live described the pain as so severe that she 'faints and throws up'.
Debilitating Condition Overlooked
Munchetty has long campaigned for better awareness and understanding of adenomyosis and other women's health issues, which she says are often overlooked. She stated: 'We're shouting about adenomyosis, we're shouting about endometriosis, we're shouting about this health gap and care gap that exists, and it will take years to be heard, but you've got to start somewhere.'
In a recent interview on the White Wine Question Time podcast, she detailed the impact of the condition: 'I've spoken about it on my platforms, you know, Five Live and Breakfast as a journalist, but it's a very difficult thing to do. I don't want to keep saying I'm in pain. It doesn't do my mental health any good.'
Pain Leading to Fainting and Vomiting
Munchetty recounted a recent episode: 'I fainted just in the last month when I had a period again just before work and was really ill.' She added: 'I will be doubled up and I will lie on the floor because I need to feel uncomfortable to distract me.'
She expressed frustration with the lack of support: 'I have an illness, a condition, but because I was told it was normal, when someone says you're in pain I say I'm fine. I get really pissed off and really angry. I'm not in pain every minute of the day but when it comes, my goodness, overwhelming is an understatement - I'm ill, I can pass out, I throw up.'
Comparison with Peers
Munchetty admitted to comparing herself unfavourably with others: 'I would look around... and think 'she's doing brilliantly, she's coping, look at how far she's gone, I'm not doing well enough.' I would look at my peers and think 'they're just cracking on with it, why is it affecting you so much - when I have something different?'.'
Love for Live Broadcasting
Despite her health struggles, Munchetty continues to work six days a week for live broadcasts. She said: 'Live for me is so much better for the way my mind works. You have to be really sharp when you are broadcasting live, but if you fluff a word you just move on. I love being live and it feels you have a connection with the audience you wouldn't feel if you put something out which is pre-recorded. I love that part about being live.'
Previous Emergency
In May 2023, Munchetty revealed on radio that her husband had to call an ambulance during a severe flare-up, where she was screaming 'non stop for 45 minutes'. She continues to advocate for more NHS research and treatment for women's conditions like adenomyosis.
