My Journey with Endometriosis: Diagnosed at 41
Mar 20, 2024
Hi Wellness Warrior,
Here in Australia March is, recognised as Endometriosis Awareness Month. I was diagnosed with endometriosis at 40. It was a relief to know there was a reason for all this pain. Including one call to 000 in 2018. I was not diagnosed then though. Instead I was given antibiotics and told there must be an infection there.
I feel grateful I was able to have my daughter despite having endometriosis. I'm luckier than many others. I never take this for granted.
As I write this blog I've just recently had another endo attack. One of the worst. It flares up randomly for me. Probably because I'm due for surgery. Despite having private health insurance there's still a waiting period. I'm grateful to have it as otherwise I hate to think how long the wait would be! Again, more gratitude there.
The prescription medication killed the pain but I lost my spark. I lost my concentration and my energy. Don't get me wrong. I'm grateful to have this medication for emergencies. As otherwise I'd end up at the hospital. But it can affect your mental health during these outbreaks, for me anyway. I'm definitely not at my best! In fact. I slurred my speech the other night while out at the shops. I assured the sales clerk I was not drunk. Just strong pain killers but I was in the need to buy their orthotic shoes which were on clearance. As I had to replace the ones I lost in the fire and my arthritis in my right big toe has been playing up as a result. Anyway, I digress...
Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition. Which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It can be hard to diagnose. Hence why i didn't get diagnosed until aged 40 and 2 hospital visits. It can cause severe pain in the pelvic region and other areas. Yes it can flow elsewhere, like up into your ribs and shoulder on one side for me on one occasion.
Living with endometriosis is an ongoing battle against debilitating pain. Plus potential infertility, a reality for 1 in 9 women in Australia. Which is heart breaking for many. The disease's has a toll on mental health. Fueled by chronic pain. The worry of infertitility. Plus the emotional burden of navigating a complex condition.
I want to shed light on the empowering role yoga can play in managing this condition.
I must add a caveat. Not all Yoga does this. Some more vigorous styles could exacerbate the pain. It also will depend other factors such as where the pain is presenting.
There's some research that underscores the efficacy of yoga in alleviating its symptoms. A study in 2017 by Brazilian researchers brought scientific evidence to the forefront. Demonstrating the impact of a gentle Hatha yoga practice on individuals with endometriosis.
In this study, 40 individuals divided into two groups. One engaged in a structured Hatha yoga routine. Twice a week for ninety minutes. While the other proceeded with their regular lifestyle. After two months, the differences were clear. Those who practiced yoga reported less daily pain. Plus a notable improvement in their well-being. Published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in January 2017.
Here's a link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27869485/
The success of yoga lies in its holistic approach to wellness. Yoga's ability to calm the nervous and immune systems. Both can be on high alert in endometriosis sufferers, plays a crucial role. The practice can promote a shift away from the body's stressed fight-flight-freeze state. Facilitating an environment conducive to healing and pain management. Not all yoga practices will do this though. Some style's blend of gentle postures, meditation, and breathing work may help. Certain poses specifically target tension in painful areas. Such as the abdomen and pelvis. Poses can improve blood flow to these areas and further alleviating discomfort. Some practitioners find certain types of breath work and meditation useful for pain relief as well.
My journey with yoga has helped with my battle with endometriosis. Offering not just a method to manage physical pain but also a sanctuary for mental relief.
