A glimpse into the struggles of women with endometriosis

ENDOMETRIOSIS is more than just a medical condition — it's a constant, invisible battle that affects nearly 1 in 10 women worldwide.

- NADINE DIRKS

Despite being a prevalent disease, it often goes undiagnosed for years or is misdiagnosed, leaving countless women to suffer in silence.

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 even pain during bowel movements or urination.

The severity of the pain can vary, but for many women, it’s intense and unrelenting, affecting both physical and emotional well-being.

As someone living with stage 4 deep-infiltrating endometriosis, I know firsthand how overwhelming the pain and chronic illness can be. Day-to-day tasks, which others might take for granted, become monumental challenges when your body constantly demands attention.

I spent nearly 8 years seeking an accurate diagnosis, only to discover that by the time I found one, my condition had already reached its most severe stage.

Endometriosis has touched every corner of my life - from socialising and working to even managing seemingly simple chores.