What was the beginning of your endometriosis journey like before you knew what was happening?

Constant pain, dizziness, wrong medication, and fainting in every period.

When were you diagnosed, and what was your journey to getting diagnosed like?

2023. an endometrial cyst ruptured, and I had to be rushed to the ER.

What did it feel like to finally have a name for what you were experiencing?

Vindicating.

How does endometriosis show up in your body and daily life?

Severe mood swings, extreme pain, mobility issues.

How would you describe the pain or physical challenges of endometriosis?

Very annoying

Do you have “good days,” and if so, what do they look like?

Yes, I’m very productive during them and get a lot done.

How has endometriosis affected your education, work, routines, or ability to make plans?

Yes

Has endometriosis had an impact on your finances or access to care?

No

What has your experience been like with doctors, specialists, and navigating the healthcare system?

Was misdiagnosed for years.

What has your experience been with treatments, surgeries, medications, lifestyle changes, or other approaches?

Medication has not worked well for me. Yoga and non-inflammatory diets work to an extent.

What has it been like to live with a condition that often isn’t visible to others?

Isolating.

Have there been times when you felt dismissed or not believed about what you were going through?

Yes, for years.

What has the emotional or mental side of living with endometriosis been like for you?

Very annoying

How has endometriosis affected your relationship with your body, identity, or sense of self over time?

Yes, i’ve gained 20 kgs because of bad medication.

How has endometriosis affected your family relationships, friendships, or dating life?

I lash out and get angry.

Has endometriosis had an impact on intimacy or your sexual life?

Yes, a lot.

If relevant to your experience, how has endometriosis influenced your thoughts, decisions, or experiences around fertility and family planning?

I don’t put any effort into fertility concerns because I don’t want to put my body through trouble.

Beyond treatment, have you found anything that genuinely helps you cope physically or emotionally?

Staying active with my hobbies.

Do you feel supported in your journey? Who or what has helped you most?

Yes, my family has been extremely understanding.

Have you connected with others who have endometriosis, either online or in person? What has that experience been like?

Yes, it has been helpful and made me realize everyone’s journey is unique.

How has your relationship with endometriosis changed over time?

I’ve come to good terms with it and learned to manage it.

More broadly, what are your thoughts on how the medical community understands and prioritizes endometriosis?

Finally some work is being done.

How do you feel endometriosis is represented in society or the media? What would you like to see change?

Not represented at all. Would like some non-whiny representation.

What would you like more people to understand about endometriosis?

It’s a whole body disease, not a gynecological disease.

When you think about the future, what fears, concerns, or hopes do you have?

I hope endometriosis awareness increases.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

No