Fionnula shares her experience of symptoms, diagnosis and finding support within the endometriosis community.
Endometriosis has affected me both physically and mentally in many ways for many years. Leaving me at times, finding it impossible to go about my daily life. Quickly, myself and those around me began to realise my chronic and excruciating symptoms where more than just “bad periods”. After many years of a multitude of doctors’ visits, scans, tests, medications, and misdiagnosis I was finally diagnosed with what I always knew was endometriosis.
Not long ago, my first laparoscopy surgery detected I had stage 4 endometriosis. Hearing “we did find endometriosis” took years of weight and anxiety off my shoulders, in the sense that I finally had answers. However, I was completely unprepared to learn that my endometriosis had caused my bowel, uterus, and ureter to fuse together - leaving me with the diagnosis and subsequently crippling pain. In the near future, I will be having a second, larger surgery, in the attempt to separate the organs effected and remove some of the disease.
As of now, like a lot of endo warriors, I have absolutely no idea what the future holds for me in terms of my endometriosis and how it will impact me in years to come. Having endometriosis can be scary but I am so grateful to the endometriosis community, including Endometriosis UK, for guiding me for many years, even when I did not have an ‘official’ diagnosis. Those who advocate for endometriosis provided, and continue to provide me with advice, knowledge, comfort, and hope. Sometimes half the battle is being listened to but being part of such a strong community of women dealing with this horrific condition like myself every single day, makes me feel accepted, heard, and valid.
I am beyond proud of myself, my younger self, and everyone out there who is continuing to battle endometriosis too - diagnosed or in the process - we are never alone!
