March is Endometriosis Action Month

March is designated as Endometriosis Action Month, a pivotal time to raise awareness about this often-misunderstood chronic condition that affects 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth. Despite its prevalence, endometriosis remains underdiagnosed and frequently misinterpreted, leaving many in agonizing pain without adequate support.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis manifests differently for each individual, with symptoms commonly including debilitating pelvic pain, heavy and painful menstrual periods, and severe fatigue. Unfortunately, these symptoms can lead to lifestyle disruptions, significantly impacting one’s ability to engage in daily activities.

A Personal Journey: Nina Cutaran

This month serves to address the urgent need for improved understanding of endometriosis among the public and to advocate for better communication and diagnostic practices by healthcare providers. Many women, like Nina Cutaran, a resident of West Midlands, encounter years of suffering before receiving a proper diagnosis for their debilitating pelvic pain.

Nina's struggle spanned five long years, during which multiple doctors dismissed her concerns as mere "normal period pain." Her ordeal escalated to a critical moment when she experienced a ruptured ovarian cyst, a life-altering event that finally led to her diagnosis of Stage 4 endometriosis. She expressed the ongoing fear that grips her during her monthly cycle: “Whenever I have period cramps or pelvic pain, I live in dread that I might face another ruptured cyst.”

Life After Diagnosis

Since her diagnosis in 2023, Nina's life has been drastically transformed. She lamented, “Endometriosis has stripped me of my favorite hobbies like volleyball and has put immense pressure on my career. There are days when I can't even get out of bed due to the pain. The constant fear of job loss looms over me as I repeatedly take sick leave because of my condition.”

Impact on Fertility

However, the most heart-wrenching aspect of Nina's battle with endometriosis has been the impact on her fertility. “My dreams of becoming a mother have been shattered,” she shared, articulating a common struggle among those afflicted. “Endometriosis severely limits my chances of conceiving naturally, robbing me of the choice of when I can start a family.”

Call to Action

As Endometriosis Action Month pushes for increased awareness, Nina emphasizes that while progress in diagnosis rates is being made, there is still a pressing need for more dedicated healthcare professionals within the NHS to provide the necessary support for women. “Raising awareness is crucial, but we must also ensure that the healthcare system is equipped to help us.”

Nina also supports BloodyEndoMidlands, a charity focused on aiding women suffering from endometriosis in the West Midlands. Individuals affected by this condition are encouraged to connect with the support group through their Facebook page and website.

Conclusion

As we observe Endometriosis Action Month, it is vital to prioritize education and support systems for those impacted, ensuring that no one has to endure years of suffering without proper care and recognition. Let’s stand together in the fight against endometriosis and advocate for a world where every woman feels heard, validated, and empowered in her health journey!