Scarlet’s Jo’s journey with endometriosis was full of bumps and misconceptions. Here are the insights she wishes she’d discovered sooner.
Let me be real - my journey with endometriosis has been a wild ride. If I’d picked up on these truths earlier, I could’ve saved myself a lot of headaches. Here’s what I wish someone had told me from day one.
1. That Pain? Not Normal
Every month, I dealt with killer cramps, bone-deep fatigue, and heavy bleeding. I thought this was just part of the deal. Nope! If your period has you doubled over, it might signal something more, like endometriosis. Spotting those early signs could have changed everything and helped me start treatment way sooner instead of suffering in silence.
2. The Pill Isn’t A Magic Fix
When I got my diagnosis, the go-to suggestion was the pill. I was promised it would sort my period and ease symptoms. What I didn’t know? The pill could actually hide endo growth. Not all birth control is created equal either - progesterone-only pills might work better for endo peeps than oestrogen-based ones. I wish I’d understood the difference and how these hormones could affect me long-term.
3. Surgery: Know Your Options
After my first endo surgery, I thought all procedures were the same. I had ablation, where they burn away tissue, but I didn’t realise that excision surgery, which cuts out the tissue completely, is way more effective. If I’d known this distinction - and if an endo specialist had been involved - I believe my outcome would have been different.
4. Be Your Own Advocate
It took me ages to learn how to stand my ground in the doctor’s office. I was often brushed off and given the bare minimum of info. If I’d been bolder and trusted my instincts, I would’ve found relief much faster. This is your body - don’t shy away from speaking up. You’re paying for their time, and you deserve answers.
5. Pain Management Is Personal
What works for one person might do nothing for you. I spent years trying everything from heat packs to alternative therapies. Finding the right mix takes time, but when you hit that sweet spot, it’s a game changer.
6. Community Is Everything
One of the biggest surprises? The power of support groups. Whether it’s a Facebook community or a local meetup, chatting with others in the same boat is invaluable. There’s something so comforting about knowing you’re not alone. These groups offer emotional support and practical advice that no doctor could ever give. Connecting with folks who truly get your struggle makes the journey a bit lighter.
If you want any advice on strategies - or just pick my brain on my favourite choccy brands (obvs a period essential), I would love to chat 👉 hello@scarletperiod.com.
