Endometriosis is more than just bad periods - learn more about a Crew Commander's experience of the condition

Diagnosed with endometriosis in the same year she joined the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) nearly ten years ago, Crew Commander Erin Brown has learned to balance the demands of a physically challenging role with the realities of a chronic and often misunderstood condition.

Endometriosis is described as a painful chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside it. It can take some women around ten years to receive a diagnosis.

Erin said, “Endometriosis is physically and mentally taxing, and it’s so much more than just ‘bad periods.’

Erin describes having to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” both physically and in explaining her symptoms to colleagues in a male‑dominated environment.

Now aged 29, Erin was just 20 when she received her diagnosis, at the same time she joined the on call crew at Eyemouth Community Fire Station.

“I was initially worried about beginning my training,” she said.

“I had just been diagnosed and was undergoing temporary menopause treatment. I didn’t know how this would affect my role or my future, but I was incredibly fortunate to have an amazing watch commander and a supportive team around me.”

Although her diagnosis provided clarity, Erin emphasises that endometriosis remains a lifelong condition that is widely under‑recognised.

By sharing her story during Endometriosis Action Month, she hopes others will feel less pressure to justify their experiences.

Erin underwent surgery the same year she joined SFRS and returned to full duties shortly after.

Reflecting on that time, she said: “I didn’t know what adjustments I could ask for, and I worried that requesting light duties would make it seem like I couldn’t do my job.”

A year later, when she joined the wholetime service, Erin continued working by managing periods of good health and taking sick leave during flare‑ups. However, she faced many challenging moments.

On one occasion, she had to leave quickly on return from a job after experiencing heavy bleeding that became visible through her uniform, an experience she now speaks about openly to highlight the very real impact of the condition.

After being promoted to Crew Commander at MacDonald Road Community Fire Station, she moved into a training role last year.

“It came at the right time,” Erin said.

“I was having a particularly difficult period with my endometriosis, and the training environment has offered far more flexibility for alternative duties. That support has made a significant difference.”

Living with endometriosis means constantly anticipating the next flare‑up. In a physically demanding role, symptoms can be easily triggered, and Erin has often worried about letting colleagues down when she is unable to carry out certain tasks or needs time off.

She stresses the importance of awareness among colleagues, especially in male‑dominated workplaces.

Greater understanding can help people better support not only those they work with but also partners, friends, and family members who may be living with the condition.

As an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, we continue to pledge our support to colleagues impacted by endometriosis, ensuring they feel understood and supported in the workplace.

Our membership reflects our commitment to supporting colleagues affected by the condition, breaking down stigma, and creating a workplace where everyone feels understood, supported, and able to thrive.

By speaking openly, Erin hopes to challenge the stigma surrounding women’s health and inspire colleagues to build greater understanding, awareness, and support.