My experience with endometriosis has been up and down!
It was a little difficult to come to terms with when I was first diagnosed at 24 years old. However, I decided to attend a session hosted by an endometriosis awareness organization where ladies with the disease shared their own experience. I was really encouraged by it.
One of the panelists, a gynaecologist, encouraged us to make sure we take our mental health seriously. The illness often leads to depression and anxiety, due to the intensity of the pain. So I’ve really been trying to be conscious about that.
Last year was the toughest time of my life because I was always in pain and unaware of what was causing the pain. It felt as though my life was being taken away from me because I had to slow down. It felt like I wasn’t living a purposeful life—something I value so much.
The pain is still bad-especially with associated irritable bowel syndrome-but God has been giving me a new perspective that has really been blessing me.
My endometriosis story initially started with chronic digestive issues since as early as the age of 13.
I visited numerous doctors and had to go to the hospital on several occasions. Notwithstanding this, the possibility of endometriosis was only raised when I was 24 years after being rushed by a co-worker to see a doctor after severe pains at work. On average, it takes up to 7 years for a woman to be properly diagnosed with endometriosis. In light of this, sensitization and public awareness is critical.
For those who don’t know, endometriosis is the presence of normal endometrial tissue (which is normally found in the womb/uterus), abnormally placed in other locations in the body such as the gut, bladder, ovaries and even the lungs or brain.
It causes severe chronic pelvic and lower abdominal pain, painful periods, heavy bleeding, cycles of diarrhoea and constipation, bloating etc.
I had to do surgery, which is the only definitive way to diagnose it and attempt to treat it; however, it reaped little success. I’m currently on hormonal injections to determine if it can address the pain and bring about some kind of normalcy to my life.
Amidst this difficult time, it has made me so appreciative of my partner, family and friends.
With a diagnosis, I am able to properly research and determine my triggers and it has made me more committed to doing what’s best for my body. Staying away from inflammatory food such as red meat and pepper and eating as much plant-based foods as possible has been helpful. Regular exercise and being patient with myself have also helped tremendously.
For young ladies, particularly Christian ladies, there is no shame in seeking help for pain. Strength is not determined only by our ability to withstand pain and difficulties but also by taking the necessary steps to do what’s best for our bodies; trusting God’s plans for our lives and His love for us.
-Signed An Anonymous Endometriosis Warrior
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