You might have been told before, "oh it's just period pain", but I'm here to tell you period pain is NOT normal! Largely, society have normalised painful periods, and unfortunately now many women go many years undiagnosed, un-treated for their pain, meanwhile their symptoms get completely invalidated!
I know period pain too well. In 2012 I began experiencing crippling bowel pain related to my period. I had no idea what was going on and went from doctor to doctor, who just prescribed pain medication. They also suggested to go on the oral contraceptive pill, however, it had never really agreed with me so I chose to put up with the pain. Eventually I was referred to a gynecologist, and diagnosed with endometriosis.
Sadly this story happens all too often. This is why the latest research suggests it takes 6.5 years on average for women to be diagnosed with Endometriosis, an immune/gynaecological condition affecting around 800,000 women in Australia. That is precisely why I decided to become an endometriosis specialist nutritionist here on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Endometriosis can be such a debilitating condition for the women of Australia and causes tremendous suffering.
Some of the Symptoms of Endometriosis include:
Painful periods
Painful bowel movements
Pain before, during or afterward urination
Painful sex
Pain during ovulation
Infertility
IBS symptoms
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Bloating
Food intolerances
Anxiety
Depression
Fatigue (There are links with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia)
This can lead to feelings of isolation, feeling misunderstood, or being told that the pain is "all in your head". Others often don't understand the pain, and down play symptoms.
These are merely some of the frustrations endo girls go through.
As someone who has truly been there, I feel so much empathy for those who suffer from endometriosis on the Gold Coast, and Australia-wide. I know how it feels to be completely devastated by this condition.
The good news is there is hope! In many situations through my endometriosis clinic on the Gold Coast we can begin to make a real impact in endometriosis pain. Alongside dietary changes, specific supplements and lifestyle strategies, I also suggest an endometriosis team and can refer you to other practitioners on the Gold Coast for supportive treatments.
This gives my patients more control over their pain and symptoms, there is always hope!
It means less of the above issues and more of the living your best life kinda vibes.
The Endo Relief clinic receives endometriosis patients from the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia-wide and specific countries globally.
If you are sick and tired of dealing with period pain, and the symptoms of endometriosis, hit the link below and let's chat.
Bec xx
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