Welcome to March: Endometriosis Awareness Month & Women’s Month

When I heard stories of excruciating pain during periods, I used to think some women were exaggerating. Isn’t it just period pain? Why are you doing too much? I thought they were being dramatic until I trained as a midwife and had the opportunity to read, observe, and have firsthand experiences with women who reported to the hospital with endometriosis.

Huh. My bad.

I watched women double over in pain, unable to move, breathe, or even speak properly. Some had been misdiagnosed for years. Others were told, “It’s normal. Just take painkillers.” But this was far from normal.

When Pain Becomes a Prison

Menstruation is a natural part of a woman’s life. But for some, it’s not just a cycle; it’s a monthly nightmare. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, affecting organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and intestines. Unlike normal menstrual tissue, this misplaced tissue has no way to exit the body, causing inflammation, scarring, and unbearable pain.

Women with endometriosis often hear:

?? "You’re just being dramatic."

?? "It’s all in your head."

?? "You’ll be fine after childbirth."

But the reality? It takes an average of 7-10 years to get a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, many women endure debilitating pain, infertility struggles, and emotional distress, feeling unheard and dismissed.

Could You Have Endometriosis? Here’s How to Identify It

Endometriosis is more than just “bad period pain.” Some key signs to watch out for include:

?? Severe menstrual cramps that don’t improve with painkillers

?? Pain during or after sex

?? Painful bowel movements or urination (especially during your period)

?? Heavy or irregular bleeding

?? Chronic fatigue, bloating, nausea, or digestive issues

?? Difficulty getting pregnant or infertility

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If you experience any of the above symptoms, especially severe pain that disrupts your daily life, don’t ignore it. Seek medical attention if:

?? Your period pain is so intense that it affects your ability to work, study, or do daily activities.

?? Painkillers don’t seem to help.

?? You have been trying to conceive for a long time without success.

A doctor may recommend ultrasounds, MRI scans, or laparoscopic surgery to diagnose endometriosis. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Breaking the Silence: What Can We Do?

?? If you experience severe menstrual pain, painful sex, or unexplained infertility. seek medical help. Track your symptoms and advocate for yourself.

?? If you know someone struggling, believe them. Listen. Support.

?? Share this message. Awareness saves lives.

No woman should feel alone in her pain. ??