Newport Pagnell's Leah Williamson feared missing out on Euros due to endometriosis
The condition can cause painful periods, pelvic pain, cramping, and more
England Captain Leah Williamson, from Newport Pagnell, has said she feared missing out on England's successful Euro 2022 campaign because of her endometriosis.
Endometriosis "is a big fear"
The defender told Women's Health magazine: "Before the Euros I had a concussion, which they say can really impact your next period, and it was bad - like, really bad.
"You know when you're on the bathroom floor and literally like 'I can't move'. When it's too late to take the tablets because I'm, like, in it now."
The 25-year-old also recalled how stressful the threat of a bad period became before last year's England v Norway game. She said: "I was like 'it cannot happen'. Like, I actually won't be able to play.
"(Having an endometriosis flare-up) is a big fear when you get to a tournament not injured."
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Painful periods, pelvic pain and cramping, uncomfortable bowel movements and excessive bleeding, are among the various symptoms. Infertility is also possible.
The Euros victory over Germany also marked England's first major football trophy since the men's 1966 World Cup triumph.