Stories of women's struggles with endometriosis

ENDOMETRIOSIS is more than just a medical condition - it's a constant, invisible battle that affects nearly 1 in 10 women worldwide. It often goes undiagnosed for years or is misdiagnosed, leaving countless women to suffer in silence.

- NADINE DIRKS

The endometrium, the tissue that typically lines the inside of the uterus, begins to grow outside the uterus in women with endometriosis. This growth can occur on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and other pelvic organs. In rare cases, it even spreads beyond the pelvic region. Yet, its impact reaches far beyond physical symptoms it affects relationships, mental health, career, and self-image.

Endometriosis is painful because the tissue growing outside the uterus behaves like the lining inside it - thickening, breaking down, and shedding during the menstrual cycle. However, unlike the tissue inside the uterus, which is expelled from the body, the tissue outside the uterus has no way to exit. This causes irritation, inflammation, and sometimes scarring or adhesions, where organs stick together. The constant internal inflammation can lead to chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, painful intercourse, and pain during bowel movements or urination.

As someone living with stage 4 deep-infiltrating endometriosis, I know first-hand how overwhelming the pain and chronic illness can be.