This is Anna’s Story.
From my teenage years, I suffered through unbearable period pain, heavy bleeding, and constant bloating that made even eating difficult. Many days I couldn’t get out of bed. Despite countless doctor visits, blood tests, and procedures, I was repeatedly told it was “just IBS” or stress. I felt dismissed, unheard, and alone.
Over the years, my symptoms worsened—daily stabbing pain, pelvic aches, extreme fatigue, dizziness, and waves of anxiety and depression. I withdrew from life, questioning myself because so many people suggested it was all in my head.
It wasn’t until recently, after pushing for answers, that I was diagnosed with severe endometriosis. Finally, I had a name for the battle I had been fighting for over 10 years. The diagnosis was both a relief and heartbreak—relief that I wasn’t imagining my pain, but heartbreak knowing there’s no cure.
I’m finally having a laparoscopy next month to find out where I have endo and to get it removed.
Every day is still a fight—with pain, nausea, exhaustion, and self-doubt—but I try to hold onto hope. Endometriosis affects so many women, often silently, and I share my story so others know they are not alone. My wish is that one day, we’ll not only be believed sooner, but that a cure will be found.
