'In this essential book, Dr Liz Murray provides accurate, practical and empowering information that every woman should have access to.' - Professor Andrew Horne, Director of Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh; Speciality Advisor to CMO for OBGYN, Scottish Government; and President of World Endometriosis Society

For generations, women's health concerns have been dismissed, minimised, or misunderstood. But heavy, painful periods are not normal, and suffering in silence should not be an option. In this groundbreaking and compassionate guide, Dr Liz Murray blends medical expertise with her own experience of living with endometriosis and chronic illness, to give readers the clarity, language, and confidence to finally be heard.

Drawing on the latest research into endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis and PCOS, Dr Murray explains what's really happening inside your body and how these conditions can affect women in very different ways. She offers practical tools for self-advocacy, demystifies diagnosis, and lays out treatment paths that empower rather than overwhelm.

Inside, you'll learn how to:

- Spot the early signs your body wants you to notice
- Recognise the crucial role of hormones and your immune system play in your health
- Navigate the path to diagnosis
- Understand your options for treatments
- Deal with issues affecting your fertility, menopause, and relationships

All women deserve to feel supported and empowered in their own bodies. Not Just Painful Periods is more than book - it's a revolution in women's health, delivered with warmth, wisdom, and unshakeable hope.

About the author

Dr Liz Murray is a doctor, author, speaker, and women’s health advocate working at the intersection of medicine, lived experience, and systems change.

After experiencing firsthand the realities of delayed diagnosis and fragmented healthcare, Liz became passionate about improving how we understand, validate, and support people living with chronic illness. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between clinical knowledge and real patient experience - helping people feel informed, empowered, and less alone.

Liz is the founder and CEO of the charity Mortal And Strong, a recipient of the British Citizen’s Award for services to health, and the author of Not Just Painful Periods, published by Octopus Publishing Group.

She is also the creator of the Diagnosis Spiral and Thrive Arc frameworks — human-centred models exploring the emotional, functional, and societal impact of diagnostic delay, and how healthcare can move people from survival toward understanding, recovery, and hope.

Through her writing, media work, speaking, and advocacy, Liz is passionate about reshaping conversations around women’s health, healthcare inequalities, and compassionate care.

Her guiding belief is simple: people should not have to fall apart before they are finally believed.