When I was 13 years old, I started my period. By 14, I was already spending half of my month suffering pain and nausea that knocked me off my feet. At 16 I first went to the doctor about my symptoms, and at 23 I was finally diagnosed with endometriosis. 

9 years of pain. 9 years of being made to think it was normal, it was all in my head, it couldn’t possibly be that bad. That it was ‘just a period’. But it wasn’t. 

Endometriosis is a condition whereby tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus - usually in the pelvic cavity, but also in places like the bladder, bowels, ureters and kidneys, the diaphragm and lungs… causing inflammation, scarring, blood-filled cysts adhesions (sticking one organ to another), infertility, and so much pain. At best estimate, one in 10 of those AFAB will have endometriosis- as common as those with diabetes. 

There is no cure, and treatments that manage pain and symptoms can be rough on the body or not work at all for some. Surgery can offer symptom relief, but many experience recurrence - some sooner than others. 

I’m a student nurse these days, and I advocate for fair treatment of patients, take my opportunity as a Support Group Leader to listen and let them feel heard, and one day hope to specialise in the area. I would never have found myself on this path without the incredible work of Endometriosis UK. I know finances are tough right now for many of us  - but anything you can spare helps me to keep supporting people with endo and the charity pushing for change. 

All my love,

Lexi xxx