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Chloe Keys, a 26-year-old from Belfast, recently underwent surgery to remove a fibroid, described as being as large as a mango, after enduring years of debilitating symptoms. Frustrated by prolonged waiting times within the NHS, she felt compelled to seek private healthcare to address her severe condition. Her experience highlights a growing concern regarding the management of women’s health issues in the UK and reflects broader systemic challenges within the NHS.
A Struggle with Severe Symptoms
Since her teenage years, Chloe has battled Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), but it wasn’t until 2022 that she discovered the presence of large uterine fibroids. These non-cancerous growths resulted in excruciating stomach pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and extreme fatigue. The severity of her condition meant that each month, she would spend two weeks largely confined to her home, unable to engage in normal activities.
On one occasion, while on holiday in Seville, she recounted the distressing experience of leaving a “trail of blood” behind her as she tried to manage her periods in public. This relentless cycle of pain and embarrassment left her feeling isolated and desperate for relief.
NHS Strain and the Decision to Go Private
Chloe’s frustrations with the NHS escalated when she experienced a particularly disheartening episode in February. After enduring a lengthy wait for an appointment, she collapsed in tears upon learning that her consultant had cancelled her visit while she was still in the waiting room.
“I waited nine months for this appointment,” she reflected. “Being at the mercy of NHS gynaecology felt like a life prison sentence.” Despite her consultant’s recommendation of an oral treatment, Ryeqo, which could induce medical menopause, Chloe sought alternative options, including surgery. Yet, she felt pressured to accept a treatment that she believed was unsuitable for her age and circumstances.
Broader Implications for Women’s Health
Chloe’s experience is not an isolated case. A recent survey by Hertility, a women’s health platform, revealed that over 90% of respondents felt their reproductive health concerns were dismissed by healthcare professionals. This alarming statistic underscores a significant trust deficit in the healthcare system, where women often feel their symptoms are minimised or overlooked.
Deirdre O’Neill, co-founder of Hertility, remarked, “Women deserve better. Healthcare should be preventative, personalised, and precision-led.” The data suggests a pressing need for systemic change in how women’s health issues are addressed, moving towards a model that prioritises timely and compassionate care.
The Workplace and Health Stigma
Chloe also highlighted how her health challenges have affected her professional life. She frequently felt compelled to hide her symptoms at work, fearing judgement from colleagues. “It’s taboo in the corporate world,” she noted, describing how she often bled through her clothes during important meetings. The stigma surrounding women’s health conditions can have detrimental effects on career progression and mental health, leaving many feeling like they must choose between their well-being and professional reputation.
According to Hertility’s 2026 Workplace Report, a staggering two-thirds of female employees who reported fatigue and anxiety received a new clinical diagnosis, indicating a disconnect between women’s health experiences and workplace support.
The Response from Healthcare Providers
In response to Chloe’s situation, a spokesperson for Manchester University Foundation Trust expressed regret over the missed appointments, acknowledging the frustrations patients face with long waiting lists. They assured that treatment prioritisation is based on clinical needs and promised to enhance services for better patient experiences.
However, with over 7 million people currently on elective waiting lists for non-emergency procedures in England, the NHS faces an uphill battle to meet government targets of ensuring that 92% of patients are treated within 18 weeks.
Why it Matters
Chloe Keys’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic barriers women face in accessing timely and effective healthcare. The intersection of personal health struggles and institutional inadequacies not only affects individual lives but also points to a need for a broader cultural shift in how women’s health issues are perceived and treated. As awareness grows, so too must the commitment to reforming healthcare systems to ensure that women are not left to suffer in silence, but instead receive the care and dignity they deserve.