Young Women's Wellness
HOW TO
Support
Someone with
ENDOMETRIOSIS
Emily Wang, Sophia Wang, 12/26/25
Endometriosis is not an uncommon disease, with 10% of women being affected by it. However, not a lot of people are familiar with this disease. As a result, lots of assumptions are made about the disease and what it’s like to live with it. Oftentimes, people who are only hoping to help end up saying something that makes the person with endo feel more alone and misunderstood. Here are some things to avoid saying, and what you can do instead.
Things to avoid saying:
“Endometriosis is just a bad period.”
While many symptoms of endometriosis occur around your period and are similar to period cramps, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Endometriosis is a complex disease that is much more than just a painful period. Try to view endometriosis as a separate disease rather than comparing it.
“The pain/symptoms aren’t that bad; stop overreacting.”
Some endo symptoms sound similar to what you might experience during your period. However, endometriosis is different for every person, and what someone with endo is experiencing could be entirely different or much worse compared to what you imagine. In general, it’s important to avoid making assumptions about what someone is experiencing and instead try to understand and support them as much as you can.
“You should try painkillers like Ibuprofen.”
People with endometriosis often know what symptom management works best for them, and to hear suggestions from someone who doesn't cope with endo every day can be frustrating. Plus, painkillers don’t always completely stop the pain and may not be the best option for someone with endo. Compared to presuming what will help someone, ask them how you can support them.
What to say instead:
“That sounds very hard to live with; I’m here for you.”
“I’m here to listen if you ever need someone to listen.”
“How can I support you?”
“Is there anything I can do to help?”
“It’s okay that we can’t meet up today, we can reschedule when you’re feeling better.”
“Take care of yourself; let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”
Also, sometimes it’s best not to say or ask anything about the disease itself or fertility and instead just offer support and show that you care.
What to do instead:
Ask how you can help! Those who have endo typically know how they can best be supported and what you can do to help. It could be anything from providing emotional support, like offering a listening ear, to helping them run errands or changing plans to make it easier for those with endo. Even just a quick check-in to let them know that you care and that they’re not alone.
Ask about someone's experiences with endometriosis. One of the best ways to show support for someone with endo is to learn more about the disease and understanding symptoms. Endometriosis differs hugely between individuals and asking thoughtful and respectful questions can show that you care about what they’re uniquely facing. Make sure to be respectful of their boundaries.
Be flexible! Endometriosis can be unpredictable and people with endo often need to cancel or change plans to prioritize their health. Be understanding and try to not take it personally.
Don’t be afraid to get support from professionals like your healthcare provider or a therapist. Additionally, going to appointments with a friend who has endo can be reassuring.
Everyone experiences endo differently, and everyone needs different kinds of support. Try to steer clear of making assumptions and minimizing experiences, and instead show empathy and support those with endo how they want to be supported. Sometimes, the best ways you can show support are the small ones.
Sources:
https://share.upmc.com/2021/10/supporting-someone-with-endometriosis/
https://endometriosisaustralia.org/7-ways-to-support-someone-with-endometriosis/
https://www.coopersurgical.com/patient-article/how-to-support-a-loved-one-with-endometriosis/
https://drseckin.com/how-can-i-support-my-partner-with-endometriosis/
https://www.theendometriosisfoundation.org/helping-someone-else
https://www.endofound.org/endometriosis-conversations-what-not-to-say-and-what-to-say-instead