Endometriosis, Explained – with Kathleen King

Endometriosis is far more than “bad periods” and in this powerful conversation, we unpack what that really means for pain, fertility, and everyday life with endo.I’m joined by Kathleen King who is a medical scientist, long‑time endometriosis advocate, acupuncturist, and host of Ireland’s dedicated endometriosis and adenomyosis podcast, DEARG (Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance). Kathleen brings years of lived experience and advocacy, alongside her scientific background, to cut through the myths and confusion that still surround this complex disease.We talk about what endometriosis actually is (and isn’t), why it’s so often missed or minimised, and how that delay can shape both physical health and fertility options. Kathleen shares the patterns she sees again and again in Irish healthcare – from “normalised” severe period pain to the years‑long wait for diagnosis – and what needs to change for people with endo to be believed, investigated, and treated earlier.What we coverWhat endometriosis and adenomyosis actually are, and why the “just bad periods” narrative is so damaging.Classic red flags: severe period pain, bowel and bladder symptoms, fatigue, pain with sex, and fertility struggles – and when to push for proper investigation.Why diagnosis can still take years, including medical misogyny, patchy training, and system delays.How endometriosis can impact fertility, IVF outcomes, and decision‑making around treatment, pregnancy, and timing.Current treatment options – surgery, hormones, pain management, and complementary supports – and how to navigate choices in an Irish context.Advocacy in the consultation room: what to say, questions to ask, and how to be taken seriously.The emotional and psychological toll of living with an invisible, often dismissed condition, and practical ways to protect your mental health while trying to conceive.This is a validating listen whether you have a diagnosis, suspect endo, or support someone who lives with it.About my guestKathleen King is an independent endometriosis and adenomyosis advocate, acupuncturist, and medical scientist, and has been a leading voice in Irish endometriosis advocacy for many years. She is the founder and host of DEARG – Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance – a podcast and platform dedicated to sharing evidence‑based information, resources, and real stories from those living with endo and adeno.Connect and resourcesListen to DEARG: Delivering Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Resources and Guidance wherever you get your podcasts.Follow Kathleen’s ongoing advocacy and educational work via DEARG and Irish endometriosis support organisations.If you’re living with suspected or confirmed endometriosis and want mind‑body support for fertility, you can learn more about Fertility Finesse and my 1:1 work via the links in the show description.Fertility Finesse is your go-to podcast for smart, straight-talking conversations about fertility, IVF, miscarriage, and everything that comes with navigating this emotional rollercoaster.Hosted by internationally recognised fertility coach, trauma therapist, and former midwife Helena Tubridy, the show blends medical accuracy with lived experience. Expect expert guests from reproductive medicine, psychology, and allied fields, alongside practical mindset tools and strategies Helena has honed through years of guiding clients worldwide.Clear insights, compassionate guidance, and the occasional reality check to help you cut through the overwhelm and actually feel more in control of your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, deep into treatment, or finding your way after loss, Fertility Finesse empowers you with the knowledge, support, and confidence to advocate for your fertility. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.