March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. This is a condition where there is very little research and ways to diagnose. With 11% of women said to have it, a more accurate diagnosis only happens with surgery. Endometriosis is defined as tissue that typically lines the uterus growing in places outside of this area. When the uterus naturally sheds each month, you have a menstrual cycle. When endometrial tissues form in other areas, there is no way for it to go.
It was in 2022. After many years of having a cycle, I had a pain on my left side pelvic area that was paralyzing. This pain lasted about 2 minutes, but it was the worst feeling. Not being able to move and scream because of the shock was horrible. I went through the rest of my cycle with the usual pain I have which is still very much painful. After my cycle ended, I went to see the Doctor even though I knew I should have gone right away. Through exams I found out I had cyst that seemed to include an endometriomas which is related to endometriosis. I never experienced pain like I did on this day. My eyes opened into learning more. Also, learning how important it is to have effective testing of our female reproductive system.
I wasn’t familiar with the Internet blogger Jessica Pettway, but hearing her story was heartbreaking. She was misdiagnosed with fibroids when she really had cervical cancer. The search to find answers took a few months before she was diagnosed with Stage 3. She recently lost her life to cancer at the age of 36, leaving behind her two young girls. As women we are beautiful and powerful beings. But being in the year 2024. there are still too many aggressive conditions affecting us too often and too early.
So here are some things to look out for. These can be symptoms of endometriosis, cervical cancer, and so many other conditions diagnosed down there.
- Bleeding in between periods and/or after intercourse
- Unusually heavy and/or painful periods
- Increased fatigue especially during menstrual cycles
- Blood in stool or urine
- Pain when peeing or having a bowl movement.
In the end, try to keep up to date with your feminine healthcare and encourage others. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle with good eating habits and reduced stress. If you feel something is wrong, seek medical help. If one professional doesn’t do enough. And if all else fails, “cry wolf” mentioning having pelvic pain. I wish you all continued good womanly health.