Hi friends!
When you live with lipedema, people don’t always see the whole picture. They might notice the swelling or the shape of your legs—but not the pain, the exhaustion, or the self-doubt that can come with it. And when you feel misunderstood, ignored, or judged, it can wear you down.
But here’s some good news: a new study has confirmed something many of us have known all along—support matters, and stigma hurts.
🧠 The study, titled Health-related stigma, perceived social support, and their role in quality of life among women with lipedema, looked at the experiences of 245 women living with lipedema. What did it find?
👉 Stigma is real. Compared to women in the general population, those with lipedema reported much higher levels of emotional distress and social avoidance—meaning they often skipped events or interactions because of how they felt about their bodies.
👉 Middle age is especially hard. Women in their 50s reported the highest levels of stigma and the lowest levels of support.
👉 Support is powerful. Women who felt supported—especially by friends and significant others—reported better emotional well-being, less fatigue, and a stronger sense of quality of life.
So what can we take from this? Here’s what it means for all of us:
💛 If You Have Lipedema:
You are not imagining the emotional impact. Feeling isolated or misunderstood is common, but it’s not your fault. Lipedema is often misdiagnosed or dismissed, and that can make you feel invisible. But this research proves that your feelings are valid—and that finding even one trusted person who “gets it” can change your world.
Whether it’s a friend, a partner, an online group, or a local community—connection helps. Keep reaching out. You don’t have to carry this alone.
🤝 If You Know Someone with Lipedema:
You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Just showing up matters.
Here are some easy ways to support someone:
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Listen without judgment
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Believe their pain—even if it’s invisible
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Avoid weight-focused comments; remember, lipedema fat doesn’t respond to diet or exercise the way other fat might
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Invite them to participate in things without pressure—sometimes the invitation itself means everything
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Ask how you can help
🌟 Why This Matters for All of Us:
Too often, women with lipedema are left to advocate for themselves in a system that doesn’t understand them. This study shows we need more awareness, more compassion, and more community. And it starts with us.
At Legs Like Mine, we believe in lifting each other up. If you’re feeling alone, drop a comment or DM us. If you’ve got support to give, let us know! We’re building a space where every woman with lipedema feels seen, strong, and supported—just as she is.
📚 Want to read the study? It’s titled Health-related stigma, perceived social support, and their role in quality of life among women with lipedema, and it was published in May 2025. It confirms what we’ve always believed: Lipedema is real. Stigma is harmful. Support is healing.
Let’s be that healing space—for ourselves and for each other. 💕
