During March, Endometriosis UK are running a 1 in 10 fundraising campaign to raise awareness of the condition that effects 1 in 10 women. As I’m one in those ten women, I’m challenging myself to walk a total 10km every week during March.

Endometriosis (pronounced en- doh – mee – tree – oh – sis) is an
inflammatory disease in which cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body. There's no way of preventing Endometriosis, no cause as to why it happens or a cure and around 1.5 million women in the UK are currently living with the condition.

Like many, I had not heard of the condition, until 2012 when I suddenly start to experience excruciating pain usually once a month. For me there are no warning signs, no time to take any pain medication. The pain is so intense I roll around the floor with a cold sweat until I can hopefully apply a hot water bottle (depending where I am!) and find a comfortable position to help alleviate some of the pain. After about an hour, pain has eased but I’m left completely exhausted for the rest of the day.

On average it takes 7.5 years to get a diagnosis. This is because there's a lack of knowledge in healthcare field,  as well as women of all ages who are unaware of healthy menstrual health and therefore suffering in silence. I was extremely lucky. At the time I experience my first pain I was trying to start a family and after a year of trying and a miscarriage I met an amazing doctor who by chance had worked with a gynaecology specialist and he immediately suspected Endometriosis. I moved doctors surgery, became his patient and within a few weeks he had referred me to that specialist.

After several tests the specialist also confirmed the suspicions but informed me the only way to properly diagnosis was through surgery. I needed to know, each time the pain came I was so scared. Surgery happened and I was diagnosed with moderate endometriosis. While they managed to remove parts, some of the cells were too close to my organs. I wasn’t cured and while I was extremely lucky and now have
a beautiful daughter, two years after she was born the pains return. This time though its less scary, just knowing what the condition is helps me and my family.

I count myself lucky that I was diagnosed so quickly, many women suffer for years. I’ve always been open about my condition as I hope by doing so I will help to stop the stigma and raise awareness of Endometriosis. Any donations to help get the support and healthcare to those who need, until a cure is found are greatly appreciated.

Thank you for reading my story.

#EndoTheStigma