Naga Munchetty has bravely opened up about the intense pain and struggles she faces every day while living with adenomyosis, a condition that affects one in 10 women in the UK. The BBC Breakfast presenter, who first shared her diagnosis in 2023, revealed the severe impact it has had on her life, both personally and professionally.
A Life of Chronic Pain
Adenomyosis is a condition where the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle in the wall of the womb, causing debilitating pain and discomfort. Naga, who has also been diagnosed with endometriosis, admitted that she often experiences excruciating pain so severe it leaves her physically incapacitated. “You become conditioned to accept extreme pain with adenomyosis,” Naga told The Times. “I have probably got endometriosis as well. If you’re curled up on the floor screaming, sweating, flooding, passing out, vomiting, that is debilitating.”
Despite the agony, Naga explained that she has learned to “normalize” the pain, as many women with chronic conditions do. “But you end up normalising that pain,” she said. “It can come at any time, but you put it in a box and you get on with your job — that’s what most women do when they’re in pain.”
Raising Awareness Through Her Platform
Naga has used her public profile to raise awareness about the condition, hoping to spark change and help others. She has been an advocate for those struggling in silence, especially since her own symptoms were misdiagnosed for over 30 years. “I use my platform to shout about things that are wrong,” Naga shared. “You hope you can bring about change. I get messages from women who say, ‘I read your book. I’ve just booked a doctor’s appointment.’ It’s a massive achievement to have helped someone.”
Keeping It Secret for Years
Although Naga was diagnosed with adenomyosis in late 2022, she has been suffering from the symptoms since she was 15 years old. However, it wasn’t until many years later that she received a proper diagnosis. Naga explained how she kept her struggles secret while working as a broadcaster. “People see me as a trusted source of information,” she said. “No one is interested if I’m feeling unwell. In our industry, you don’t want to seem weak, and you don’t want concessions because there is competition all around. You’re always trying to be the best you can be.”
Despite the physical toll of the condition, Naga said she has never allowed it to affect her work. “I will not let it affect my work, I am stubborn as hell and dose myself up with painkillers. I don’t compromise being good at my job,” she stated.
A Powerful Voice for Women’s Health
Naga’s decision to speak out about adenomyosis has been a source of strength for many women who feel isolated in their own struggles with the condition. By using her platform to share her experience, Naga is not only raising awareness but also encouraging others to seek help and demand better care for conditions that have long been overlooked.
