According to Endometriose Québec, 1 in 7 women* suffer from this chronic disease. Other studies also suggest that a woman could wait up to 8 years before receiving a clear diagnosis of endometriosis.
But, actually, what is endometriosis?
Still according to Endometriose Québec, “it is a chronic gynecological disease that can be very painful. It is linked to the presence of tissue similar to the endometrium outside the uterus and on neighboring organs. It can also lead to the formation of cysts, scar tissue or adhesions that connect organs together and cause pain. »
The organization, which has a mission primarily of education and representation, mentions that endometriosis “is not a fatal disease, but it can have serious consequences on the physical health and quality of life of people who suffer from this, in addition to significant repercussions on their private, social and professional lives. »
In addition to being complex since the symptoms and consequences differ from one affected person to another, endometriosis is a disease that is difficult to detect, hence the often very long delay before receiving a diagnosis.
Marielle, founder at Fornix, testifies: “I myself have endometriosis which was discovered during a surgical operation aimed at removing a tube on which there was a hydrosalpinx detected after years of fertility treatments.
The endometriomas (endometriosis cells) have been removed, but there are others that may form later. I thought it was normal to have so many menstrual cramps, but maybe it wasn't so normal after all. »
Not knowing. Believing that it’s normal. These are two completely valid experiences related to endometriosis. At Fornix, we believe that it is necessary to break the taboos surrounding reproductive health, to normalize the subject and to become aware that, even if we are not aware that we live with endometriosis , we may be in this situation.
Another woman testifies: “I suffer from a chronic disease called endometriosis and which triggers very intense pain in the pelvic region. Often, we imagine that these pains are only present during periods, but in fact, it is daily. »
Possible solutions to live better with endometriosis
Here are 4 areas to explore if you live (or think you live) with endometriosis and want to actively take back your power.
*This advice does not replace a consultation with a health professional.
FOOD
• Understand the importance of good nutrition when living with a chronic illness
• Identify foods with anti-inflammatory action (like types of fats and antioxidants for example)
• Determine the foods that best nourish your body
• Learn to cook simple meals (it really makes all the difference)
• Eat balanced meals by planning a menu with a list of meals for the week
MOVEMENT
• Redefine what “exercise” means to you
• Discover the best ways to move your body (especially when you don’t feel like moving)
• Include movement in your daily life by planning times to exercise according to your energy level (e.g.: going for a walk, taking the stairs, dancing in your living room, trying a HIIT workout, etc.
STRESS MANAGEMENT
• Understand why stress management is essential for women with endometriosis
• Try different easy and inexpensive ways to reduce stress (e.g. yoga, swimming, masturbation, journaling, painting, etc.)
• Explore and target the methods that work best for you and create new anti-stress habits
And a calm nervous system means optimizing the health of your menstrual cycle!
NATURAL & ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS
• Better understand toxins and chemicals in relation to your hormones
• Explore different alternatives to traditional menstrual products (the Fornix disc is one of them)
• Find more natural products for the home and body
• Experiment if CBD, Chinese medicine or acupuncture suits us
The most important thing is that you don't have to go through this alone. Don’t hesitate to open the discussion with a friend you trust or a professional who will be able to guide you towards the best courses of action for your situation.
Here are 2 reading suggestions to delve deeper into the subject:
• Endometriosis and uterine fibroids by Aïssatou Sidibé and Marie-Josée Thibert, published by Trécarré in which we hear the voices of these patients as well as those of health professionals from different fields.
• Bleed by Tracey Lindeman published by ECW Press in which the author testifies, among other things, to her own experience.
*The term woman used in this article includes anyone living with a uterus.