My Endometriosis Story

Last Updated on December 8, 2020 by JaimeSays

Thank you Edelweiss Study for sponsoring this post. Be sure to visit the Edelweiss Endometriosis Study landing page to see if you or a loved one qualifies to participate.

Endometriosis is a pesky disease. It’s common, but it’s an often misunderstood disease that affects women of every size, race, age and socioeconomic class. If you are a woman with a menstrual cycle, even you could have it. There’s a catch though: it’s also so elusive that many women may not even know they have it.

PSA: this blog post discusses various female issues related to Endometriosis so if you don’t have two x chromosomes, I recommend passing this one on to the lady in your life. It may help her understand her symptoms and get the help she needs. Read more to find out what that means.

What are some of the risk factors of developing endometriosis? I’m glad you asked. While Endometriosis is more prevalent in women in their 30s and 40s, there are many risk factors.

Never giving birth (check)
Heavy menstrual periods that last longer than seven days (check)
Short menstrual cycles (27 days or fewer) (check)
A family member (mother, aunt, sister) with endometriosis
A health problem that blocks the normal flow of menstrual blood from your body during your period
Starting your period at an early age (check)
Going through menopause at an older age
Low body mass index

I had no idea that I had risk factors. Truthfully, before I was actually diagnosed with it, I thought I had a mostly normal menstrual cycle. Although long and more frequent than the “28-day” norm, it didn’t really impact my daily life. Sure, I would come in hours late to work sometimes, but not very often. Just on the days when the pain in my abdomen was so great that I couldn’t bear weight without crumbling into a pile of limbs on the floor. There was also my first, international press trip when my stomach so violently rebelled against me that I missed a visit to an UNESCO heritage site and earned the ire of my ran-ragged peers.

endometriosis study - penasco — On my first international press trip, I was sidelined by my Endometriosis.

It wasn’t really until my Endometriosis affected my relationship that I realized the kind of silent power the disease has. Is it still unexplained infertility when you know that the reason for its existence is endometriosis?

While there is no medical cure for Endometriosis, there are certain treatments available for many of its symptoms. These treatments include birth control, painkillers, hormone therapy, acupuncture, and even, changes in your diet.

I wish I had had this type of resource when I was “just dealing with it.” If you’re like millions of other women around the globe who are living with moderate to severe pain associated with Endometriosis, you don’t have to suffer in silence. We hear you. The Edelweiss study is testing an investigational medication that may reduce endo pain. Take the time now to take care of yourself and learn more. Share this post and link with a loved one or friend that is suffering from Endometriosis.

Endometriosis study — Endometriosis not only affects women, but it also affects relationships. Infertility and painful intercourse aren’t solo suffering.

You don’t have to suffer in silence, and by participating in clinical studies such as the Edelweiss study, you can help women take control against Endometriosis. We hear you.