I grew up watching someone I love suffer in silence.
Month after month, my sister battled pain that disrupted her school, her friendships, and her everyday life. We didn’t know it back then, but she had endometriosis. And like so many women, she was dismissed. Told it was “just bad period pain.” That she’d “grow out of it.” That it was something to put up with. She didn’t. And she wasn’t alone.
Now, as a mother myself, and as someone passionate about women’s health, I often think about how many of us grow up believing that pain is just part of the deal. That missing school, work, or life because of your period is somehow normal. It’s not.
🌿 Let’s Start With the Basics: What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, usually in the pelvic area. This can cause chronic pain, fatigue, painful periods or sex, and in some cases, fertility struggles.
But here’s what’s tricky: it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some women have mild disease and unbearable pain. Others have extensive endometriosis and little to no symptoms. That’s why it often takes years to get diagnosed.
🕰️ Why Does It Take So Long to Get Diagnosed?
Honestly? We don’t talk about it enough. For generations, periods were a “private” matter. Not something to bring up at dinner or discuss over coffee with friends.
The result? Women assumed their pain was normal. GPs often did too. And when ultrasounds didn’t show anything obvious, the issue was brushed aside.
The good news? That’s changing. There’s a growing awareness among doctors, workplaces, families, and most importantly, women themselves. You have every right to talk about your period, compare notes, and say, “Hey, this doesn’t feel right.”
❤️ It's Not Just About the Pain
Endometriosis can have a ripple effect on every part of life, relationships, work, mental health, and fertility.
It’s not just a gynaecological condition. It’s a whole body experience. One that deserves understanding, support, and options that meet you where you’re at.
Because not every woman with endo needs surgery. Not every case results in fertility struggles. It’s about listening to your body and creating a care plan that’s as unique as you are.
👶 Endo & Fertility: What You Might Not Know
One of the biggest myths out there? That endometriosis automatically means infertility.
The truth? Around two-thirds of women with endometriosis will go on to conceive without trouble.
For others, it may take longer or require support. In some cases, endo can reduce egg quality or cause inflammation that affects implantation. But there are options: surgery, IVF, egg freezing, lifestyle shifts, and more. And every pathway is personal.
🧠 The Emotional Load Matters Too
Endometriosis isn’t just a medical diagnosis. It’s something that can chip away at your confidence, energy, and relationships. And too often, it leads women to feel isolated or dismissed.
That’s why a holistic approach matters. One that includes physical care and emotional support through counselling, community, or simply knowing that someone sees your struggle and says, “I believe you.”
🌼 Let’s Talk Solutions (Not Just Surgery)
The best treatment? It depends on you. That might look like hormonal support (hello, Mirena or the pill), lifestyle changes, acupuncture, pain management, or yes, surgery. For some, it means IVF. For others, it means simply knowing what’s going on in your body and making peace with it.
The goal? Better quality of life. More good days. And fewer moments where you feel like you’re battling alone.
🧡 You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
If you’re living with endo, or think you might be, please know this: you’re not imagining things. Your pain is valid. Your experience matters. And support is out there.
At Fill Your Cup, we believe every woman deserves to be met with compassion, education, and care that makes her feel seen. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or trying to conceive with endo, we’ve got resources, doulas, and a village ready to walk with you.
💛 We have birth and postpartum doulas in Brisbane, Sydney, Hobart, Melbourne and Geelong. Whether you're navigating the unknowns of early motherhood or managing a chronic condition, our team is here to offer practical, steady, and personalised support.
🧾 Explore our free resources, or connect with a doula in your area at www.ifillyourcup.com
Disclaimer: The information on this website presented by Fill Your Cup is not a substitute for independent professional advice.
Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice
Leave a comment (all fields required)