Your Period Shouldn’t Be Painful
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. “Endo” is a painful disease that affects at least 176 million people worldwide. The Be Prepared Period team sends love and support to our many Endo sisters (and brothers!) experiencing the disease.
This month on the blog, we’re diving into the personal journeys of those that have received an Endometriosis Diagnoses. Dr. Allegra Hart, a naturopathic physician, will also be sharing her Endo story and what it took to receive a diagnosis. For many, this process can take years, and the first step to any diagnosis is awareness.
Below, Carol Drury, from the Endometriosis Association, shares the details of this disease, and the warning signs that you may have it.
What is Endometriosis?
It is a hormonal and immune disease affecting girls as young as eight and women of all ages. The name comes from the word, endometrium, which is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus and builds up and sheds each month in the menstrual cycle. In “endo” tissue like the endometrium is found outside the uterus in other areas of the body, most commonly in the abdomen.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms include pain with periods; pain with urination, or with a bowel movement; and infertility.
Period pain is not normal!
That’s right! It is not normal to be in pain during your period. If pain during a menstrual period cannot be relieved by over-the-counter pain medication and a heating pad, then endometriosis should be considered. It is important to be diagnosed as soon as possible, as earlier diagnosis and treatment may reduce the progression and severity of the disease.
How are you diagnosed with Endo?
A definitive diagnosis can only be made through laparoscopy—a surgical procedure whereby a small incision is made (usually through the belly button) and a scope is inserted so that the doctor can visually identify the growths or lesions of endometriosis.
Is there a cure for Endometriosis?
There is no cure as yet. Treatments include surgery to remove the endometrial growths, as well as medical (drug) options. The birth control pill is commonly used as a first treatment.
How many women does Endometriosis affect?
Approximately 6.3 million girls and women in the U.S., and more than 89 million worldwide.
How can I get more information about endo?
Contact the Endometriosis Association for free “yellow” informational brochures at support@EndometriosisAssn.org or 414.355.2200. (You can also request brochures written especially for girls, teens, and women in menopause.) Check out the Association’s website: www.EndometriosisAssn.org. For more in-depth information, read the Association’s latest two books: Endometriosis: The Complete Reference for Taking Charge of Your Health, and The Endometriosis Sourcebook. They are available through the Association’s website.
We hope that by reading the stories of women suffering with Endo and learning the warning signs, you feel empowered to take the next step in your journey to wellness. If you experience extreme menstrual pain, there’s a chance you may have Endo. For more information, click below to download our free guide to Endometriosis.
Here’s to a better period,
Tara & the BPP team
Each month, Be Prepared Period chooses a monthly mission. From our articles to emails, we work to bring you targeted content all month long. Stay tuned for next month’s mission, and be sure to check out the other Monthly Mission blog posts below.
See January’s Mission: Resolutions here.
See February’s Mission: Make the Natural Switch here.
We work hard to bring you topics that are relevant, informative, and helpful. If you’re looking for information on any specific topic, feel free to reach out and let us know. You can email us at info@www.bepreparedperiod.com
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