Have you ever experienced feelings of lon... - Endometriosis UK

Endometriosis UK

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Have you ever experienced feelings of loneliness or isolation due to your endometriosis?

endo_supportmanager profile imageendo_supportmanagerPartnerEndometriosis UK1168 Voters

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108 Replies
Lozza4444 profile image
Lozza4444

At work and with family

AllthatGlitters profile image
AllthatGlitters in reply to Lozza4444

Mine has been with work too unfortunately & with female managers, shame on them.

Sarasam profile image
Sarasam

No one believes that I have pain, even doctors. My doctors told my husband « take her shopping, then she will not complain from pain’ :(

Bambaloo profile image
Bambaloo in reply to Sarasam

Incredible... I’m so sorry... how unprofessional and ridiculously sexist....

dogdaft profile image
dogdaft in reply to Sarasam

This is awful. I work in the motor trade with mainly men, and not one of them believe that I am in genuine chronic pain every day. I’m discriminated against and treated like dirt because of it.

HannahElsie profile image
HannahElsie in reply to Sarasam

Jeez, that’s shocking. I’ve had some rude comments from doctors in the past but that’s terrible. What an arsehole!

Salvia profile image
Salvia in reply to Sarasam

This is so unfair. Can you see other gps? Is this in the U.K. because I reckon you can complain if it is.

Sarasam profile image
Sarasam in reply to Salvia

Thank you Salvia,

Yes in London. Im going to GP next week to ask him for referral to UCLH endometriosis clinic. I’ve heard they are good doctors there. Of course if he accepted to refer me . :( last time he referred me to a normal gyno who was not specialist in Endo. And he didn’t help at all. That is why I feel lonely and not understood...

Aaliyah16 profile image
Aaliyah16 in reply to Sarasam

Similar situation to myself. I asked for a referral to the specialist clinic at Guys and St Thomas’s but ended up seeing a general consultant!? I will go back to the GP and ask for a referral to the specialist clinic and I got nowhere with the general gynae and she discharged me straight away!? Why do we have to fight with these Drs??

TheBeachBabe profile image
TheBeachBabe in reply to Aaliyah16

I was in hospital over the summer with Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) and the Consultant Gynaecologist knew very little about what I was experiencing. The only professional who would understand the condition I had is a fertility consultant, but the NHS does not have any of those - it's all privatised. I ended up being discharged way too early from the gynae ward, whilst I could barely walk, in so much pain.

Otohime profile image
Otohime in reply to Sarasam

I understand how you feel. I’m sorry to hear that you are going through this, Sarasam. My female doctor from GP years ago, when I explained the symptoms the day after had an emergency doctor’s visit at my home, she looked at me and gave me an advice said ‘Don’t eat too much fried foods.’ We’d never discussed about my diet and I eat very healthy. I broke down in front of her because of she tried to dismiss me by telling me it’s caused by stresses and asking me ‘Aren't you stressed?’ Etc etc and I was so frustrated when I was in the severe pain and the lack of concentration etc because of it. She jumped off her chair and started shouting. But I didn’t give up because of I was in pain etc for too long and I really knew something wrong with my body. So maybe even some professionals just can’t relate to their patients and unprofessional. You are doing well by trying Saraham. Don’t give up until you’ll find the right person and to get the right support. You are the only one who can do this. X

wabbit profile image
wabbit in reply to Sarasam

I keep getting told by male gps that some women just have to suffer these things but no help...

The gynae dr who i finally got to see after 4yrs of trying to get referred bk said bluntly "nothing i can do about bowel problems dnt kno why theyve sent u here"... best if i just lock myself away when it starts. I hit rock bottom last month and took 3codeine 2ibruphen n half a bottle of wine cos the pain was enough n i just wnted it to stop. Nobody understands n theres no way to explain!

I feel ur pain xxx

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to wabbit

Hello Wabbit. That was terrible for a doctor to even suggest that... The only thing that we have to do is live, die and pay taxes! 😐 (I and in the USA! Hola from many miles away! 😀🖑) Now...😐back to the topic. If they can put and man on the moon, surly they can do something to stop the pain! That's just crazy on the part of the doctor that made the statement. He should care enough to refer you to someone that may be able to help you. I'll bet that if you told him that, the police would be outside waiting for you when when you stepped out of the exam room. 😀 They don't like for patients to say exactly what's on their mind! LOL!!!😄

...but seriously, there are some things that greatly helped me. I am not a doctor. After dealing with this for a long time, I found out that I had to keep my bowels clear. Constipation made the pain MUCH worse. I eat a lot of fruit, veggies, seafood and fiber. Many pain medications cause constipation. I rub my stomach down with castor oil in a circular motion. At night, I even soak three small pieces of gauze in the castor oil and place one in my bellybutton, rectum and partially in my lady part. I remove them in the morning. I also take a half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water every morning. This is an old remedy that has worked for me better than any medication. I am not a doctor. You may want to read up on this.

You NEVER have to suffer. Please remember that...Keeping you in prayer and sending hugs from across the miles. XOXOXO

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to Sarasam

I. Know how u feel ur not alone even tho we all feel that way

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to Sarasam

For a doctor to make such a statement...that was just totally unprofessional and inappropriate. Hmmm...You know....🤔 it might not be a bad idea to go shopping... Buy a pair of underwater five (5 🖐) sizes too small for each doctor and suggest that they wear it for a week without taking it off. THIS will help them to clearly understand the pain and discomfort of endometriosis and the other issues associated with it. It may not be a bad idea to look for a doctor that truly wants to help you. There are good doctors to there. You deserve better treatment.×oxo

Purple500 profile image
Purple500 in reply to Sarasam

Doesn't sound like this individual has the right temperament to work in the medical profession, even if it was supposed to be a joke.

LittleG22 profile image
LittleG22 in reply to Sarasam

You need to change GPs!

Mylovepari1 profile image
Mylovepari1 in reply to Sarasam

My Gp once said me that I don't have anything there but have problem in my mind from that day I am more depressed and fed up of always controlling my mind and pain .I am fed up of my life.

Bubble-z profile image
Bubble-z in reply to Sarasam

That’s awful!!! 😨

Bambaloo profile image
Bambaloo

I’ve had feelings of overwhelming loneliness and self pity coupled with anxiety for the future... I can’t deny suicidal thoughts when I’ve been in unbearable pain....

dogdaft profile image
dogdaft in reply to Bambaloo

This is very relatable for me. Remember that you are strong. You have women here to support you and empathise with everything that you are going through.

Keep your chin up, you are an amazing lady

C x

Salvia profile image
Salvia in reply to Bambaloo

it is a condition that drives us to our beds and away from others because it in some senses is still not easy to talk about with others. Particularly men in the work environment and male friends. It is important to make sure you get some social time on a regular basis and be sure that things will improve as research is focused more endo. It is hard but you aren’t alone. Can you find other sufferers near you to spend time with and share?

DLaunch profile image
DLaunch in reply to Bambaloo

It's been much the same here. I'm actually seeing a therapist to deal with the anxiety/panic attacks.

I hope things get better for everyone.

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to Bambaloo

Hey Bambaloo,

I totally get it ... It's scary and can make things seem hopeless when you have been in pain for so long without relief and without the understanding from others. ...but, don't be afraid and don't feel like your future will be cursed with misery. Doctors are human and definitely don't know everything. Maybe this is a good time to research natural remedies for the pain. You- Tube also has a lot of great information. Please check out the benefits of consuming a glass of water with a small amount of baking soda, raising the legs above the head for 15 minutes a day, rubbing your pelvic area with castor oil & applying a heating pad and eating raw ginger. These things sound too simple to work but this has done more for me than any pain medicine.

At one time, my thoughts use to take control and rule my emotions while I was in a lot of pain. Laying in bed, unable to do much and unable to concentrate on reading made time for my thoughts to take over. This was not good because the most negative thoughts come to mind and make you feel horrible emotionally as well. Please don't allow yourself to do that.

Treat yourself like the queen that you are and start doing nice things for yourself. Look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are so very special and loved by so many. Then, slap your OWN hiney and tell yourself that you are one strong and lovely lady. 😀 I started doing this for my own self and I actually feel like I can handle almost anything now. You must keep going because you are strong despite those very hard days. It will be ok. 💕💖💕💕

maya002 profile image
maya002

Jaki jest powód tego poczucia izolacji i samotności?

Jbird86 profile image
Jbird86

I feel so lonely. No one seems to get it at all!

Patch10 profile image
Patch10 in reply to Jbird86

You’re not alone! I understand and have been through the same thing. You’re stronger than you realise! X

Lola-cola5 profile image
Lola-cola5

After almost 20 year of endreometrosis . . With everything that goes with it ..I finally gave into a total hysterectomy and bilateral ovary removal that I did not want to lose, I was always poorly , depressed and hormonal.. no one ever seemed to understand the condition so I would withdraw and feel isolated.. I now have my life back!

Salvia profile image
Salvia in reply to Lola-cola5

That’s great. I’m on the same journey and really hope it will change my life. im on the Zoladex at the moment and am finding it makes me feel so much better. Thanks for that positive news! Hope you stay well for evermore

Lola-cola5 profile image
Lola-cola5 in reply to Salvia

I'm now 4 weeks post op Salvia and I'll be honest I do still have some endo pain .. I was told what endreo my surgeon could see was removed but still may have some hiding behind other organs. I still have some post op exhaustion that will improve but I feel I still made the right choice .. thankyou for your reply

MCW69 profile image
MCW69 in reply to Lola-cola5

Sounds exactly like my journey!

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to Lola-cola5

Can u ask for this of ur doctore

Lola-cola5 profile image
Lola-cola5 in reply to Alarna

You can speak to your GP about it for sure .. they will refer you onto the relevant team.. in my case I was already known very well by the gynea team.. and they had told me I had needed the op for the past 4 years.. I couldn't consent but then I could no longer cope so gave up. The gynea team will try and preserve your organs as much as possible unless it's totally necessary... so they will discuss it all with you. Good luck

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A

I am not able to travel long distances, stand for long periods of time etc. I have turned down many offers that require me to do this. After awhile, family and friends stop asking you to join them. It bothered me at one time and I felt lonely and isolated. Now, it doesn't bother me at all. I am fine with my own company and alays look forward to visiting my family and loved ones when I am able.

Hawko1989 profile image
Hawko1989 in reply to 1Tia1A

Ive grown to enjoy My own company now as the number of events ive had to back out of is ridiculous x

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to Hawko1989

I totally get it. You Tube takes me to those places now! 😂

Lola-cola5 profile image
Lola-cola5 in reply to Hawko1989

Snap

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to 1Tia1A

I hate my own company but feel like I spend a lot of time in bed because of endos I'm feeling down and depressed a lot of time

Purple500 profile image
Purple500 in reply to 1Tia1A

Yes, it's the work related thing that's so difficult to deal with.

A1987 profile image
A1987

I think people believe that I’m lying when I tell them how much pain I have been in. They look at me like if u were in so much pain how can you be in work today!

Salvia profile image
Salvia in reply to A1987

Women can tolerate loads more!

A1987 profile image
A1987 in reply to Salvia

We are strong to be able to deal with this!!!

DaisyThoughts profile image
DaisyThoughts

Yes, definitely. Unless people have some awareness of what it's like in reality to live with any kind of 'invisible illness" then unfortunately they really don't have a clue and I don't have the will or energy to try to educate anyone.

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to DaisyThoughts

EXACTLY!!! One thing I have come to realize is that folks can never understand certain things such as the chronic pain of endometriosis unless they experience it themselves. I got on my own nerves after constantly trying to describe the pain and negative emotions that come with it. There really are no words to describe this pain so I have stopped trying to educate those that do not know. I sometimes feel like telling them to wear a gurdle that is 6 times too small for a week (without taking it off) and this may give them an idea. 😉

DaisyThoughts profile image
DaisyThoughts in reply to 1Tia1A

So true. So glad we have this forum to relate and connect. Sorry you suffer so too. Xx

AllthatGlitters profile image
AllthatGlitters in reply to DaisyThoughts

Love this - I can’t be bothered either to educate people.

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd

My feelings of loneliness not because the pains even I became disabled because of the pains

What makes me crazy live dark life locked my room and crying like hell everyday is that i will never be a mom and my fiancé we will get divorce one day

I know endometriosis suffers got pregnant but me no i have really severe endometriosis and I don’t want to get laproscopy because of personal reasons

Ivf and iui need money

Now i think about the day that we will get divorce even we are not married now but i will get married next year . It is something I cannot get rid of it i always think about it i know it is something wrong

I Hope that my god on my side and I live a happy life what makes me live until this moment is my god he is my guide

Mabye i could be a miracle

Sarasam profile image
Sarasam in reply to Bdgjdjd

Do you live in UK? I know that NHS covers some IVF cases. Please don’t loose hope honey. I know many women with sever endometriosis that got pregnant. There is always hope. 🙏

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Sarasam

Thanks ❤️

but no I don’t live in uk

Yes i know a lot of endometriosis suffers got pregnant but with this stage it is impossible to happen without lap or ivf and iui i didn’t try to get pregnant because i am not married

But my feelings say that absolutely will not happen . everything returned even the cysts

With the cysts make it more more more difficult and it more likely impossible

I accept it but i feel sad and I think this is normal for someone like me

I try to be happy but sometimes it becomes so difficult

Sarasam profile image
Sarasam in reply to Bdgjdjd

My thoughts and prayers are with you🙏 Miracle is always possible. ❤️

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Sarasam

Thank you so mush you are so kind ❤️😭

Bann2018 profile image
Bann2018

I feel like I'm hiding a dirty secret from the world no babies failed IVF and a broken heart

Hawko1989 profile image
Hawko1989 in reply to Bann2018

Im sorry to hear of your pain. It is indeed heart breaking. Im too anxious to try ivf at present as im too scared of how I Would cope should it not work. No children is a massive void that never completely goes away. X

Bann2018 profile image
Bann2018 in reply to Hawko1989

I found IVF very stress full theu kept saying they where going to cancel the treatment as k was such a low responder then made it through by sheer look by my womb didn't hold onto the fertalized egg. I them supply when to a fortune teller for some hope she told me my womb will never be strong enough to carry a baby to he and I need to move on xxx

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Bann2018

Is it only endometriosis that prevents thr pregnany ? Did you have pcos ?

I hope you can get pregnant soon i try to save my money for ivf because i have stage 4 endometriosis

I have read that iui is better for endometriosis

Bann2018 profile image
Bann2018 in reply to Bdgjdjd

np never tired I IUI my doctor said no as hubbys sperm. count is my low amh !!!!

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Bann2018

Did you mean that your husband has low sperm count if you mean that ?

I think the sperm issues makes the journey more difficult

Bann2018 profile image
Bann2018 in reply to Bdgjdjd

no his sperm count is high and mobile my egg jist didn't implant. thinking of going down the donar road as my AMH is so low xx

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Bann2018

Great that there is no male issues

Amh is effected by laproscopy and age

Maybe you had a surgery for your ovaries which made your amh is low

If someday you decide to not have ivf or iui make sure you have open Fallopian tubes and try naturally

I read about someone who had failed ivf and have endometrioma on her ovary and she got pregnant naturally after faild ivf

I am as you have stage 4 endo Hope someday we get what we want and become great moms ❤️

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to Bdgjdjd

I have both pocs and ends and have no baby

Bdgjdjd profile image
Bdgjdjd in reply to Alarna

After reading most of the people who have endo and pcos that i read about them got pregnant more than who suffers from only endo there is hope for you

Diet usually works for pcos and endometriosis

Did you have regular cycles ?

What were your symptoms with pcos ?

HellyLlewelly profile image
HellyLlewelly in reply to Bann2018

I'm so sorry for your experience hun, this is not your fault its not dirty it just sucks that we got defective organs.

I've been thibking all week what causes it. Was it the contraceptive pill I took from 16 for heavy periods ..diet...what did I do to hurt my womb.....

Are there any answers on why cells go rogue? I had Adenomyosis Endometriosis and Wolfian Duct cell proliferation and mine is in the sky now away to the land of lady parts in the Sky.

X

Bann2018 profile image
Bann2018 in reply to HellyLlewelly

thank you it's so good to be in touch with people who get the problem xxxx

HellyLlewelly profile image
HellyLlewelly in reply to Bann2018

Yes because the world around us including family GP's seem oblivious to it. I ended up going private and had felt compelled to write a letter of suggestion to my practice. I named all the lady GP's who failed to referr me for investigations and told them exactly what was found inside me. I hoped other women were not dismissed for servers pain the way I was. I even named the lady GP who said to me Ovulation is supposed to be painful....whilst I told her I was falling down in the steet...

Told then all how heavily I drank on painkillers.

Hate yo say it took a man to listen to me and set up 3 referrals to rule out my pains cause.

My GP is a man very thorough and not a woman who maybe saw my face with a bit of make up on and assumed I was well enough to apply mascara. The judgement I'm sure they use is flawed.

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to HellyLlewelly

I really wont to no what corsed it or was it me that did it to my body too

DaisyThoughts profile image
DaisyThoughts in reply to Bann2018

I can completely relate. I'm not open about living with endo because my broken heart of no family needs protecting and due to that it does feel like a dirty secret.

Alarna profile image
Alarna in reply to Bann2018

Snap xx

HellyLlewelly profile image
HellyLlewelly

Friends started to think I was flaky and had other reasons to cancel plans. I lost friendships over the years. Intercourse was painful so I would often just get in the mood by being on painkillers and too much drink to just accommodate my partner. I couldn't feel like a failure in that way.

It did affect me with anxiety fatigue and depression, I felt cursed. I'm early doors post hysterectomy and I don't know if it has improved my condition yet as I still have pain... I feel like a housebound recluse and my confidence is low to go outdoors.

wanwood profile image
wanwood

I answered ‘no’ thinking about just the pain and symptoms, because my husband, friends and family have been very supportive, especially after surgery, and I am able to live my life most of the time. But if you would also count the infertility caused by the endometriosis, yes, it is isolating and heartbreaking and lonely.

Being in pain, feeling fatigued and low has meant that I often opt out of social scenarios or have to leave early. I’m sure a lot of you have felt similar. ☹️

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to

I totally get it... Whatever you do, do not allow yourself to become antisocial. Having to turn down offers to attend events and just not feeling well, in general, can cause you to want to be alone. In my case, I got accustomed to being alone. I know that this is not good and I am trying to change that habit. Sending hugs

in reply to 1Tia1A

I’ve been the same but I’m trying to push myself out of my comfort zone or invite people to my house so at least I can still relax and socialise. It’s hard isn’t it but we can do it. Hope things change for you too :)

Brightonbeb profile image
Brightonbeb

I'm really struggling with this - I was put on the pill at 14 due to really bad periods and was on them for 12 years. I stopped taking them 18 months ago to start trying for a baby but I don't want to tell everyone I'm trying as most of my mates just won't understand and think I'm too young. Since stopping I've discovered my endometriosis and it's so isolating not really being able to talk to many people about it. My mum's great (she had a hysterectomy due to her endo) and my partner is wonderful but other than that I feel like people just don't get it.

MooLoon profile image
MooLoon

Hi to all you poor sufferers reading Health Unlocked. Endo unfortunately a silent life wrecker, had got the better of me and after many many years of fighting, arguing and telling docs and consultants alike that I just could not go on with the pain anymore, I was eventually believed and 3 exploratory ops later they finally decided that I had endo which adhered to my bladder and bowel. I had 1 week out of 4 with not much pain, ovulation an absolute nightmare and not being able to walk was excruciating. Painful sex, too painful to even go to the loo and heavy periods where I used to wear 3 pads and still leak. My life as far as I was concerned was over. I've never wanted children and that was the hurdle I kept having to try and climb over before I fell flat on my face again because nobody would take me seriously. The worst treatment continued for over 26 years until I met with another consultant, who by all accounts listened to me, didn't judge me not ram more excuses or meds down my throat and asked me if I wanted a hysterectomy. I honestly cried with relief when he said that, I agreed, had complete hysterectomy and both ovaries removed. The next day I was discharged but not before I found the most fantastic surgeon who made me what I am today. I hugged him and thanked him for giving me my life back. So to all you sufferers out there, please stand your ground, insist for 2nd opinions if you have to, I know the op isn't for everyone, but those considering it and who like me doesn't have any desire for children, I would thoroughly recommend it. Just make sure the right people listen to you. I named my condition to make it easier to just say oh so and so is playing up, so for the friends family and work colleagues understood I was in pain so didn't ask questions or dug about for answers. Just remember none of you are alone. Wishing you all the best of luck in obtaining solutions and treatments right for you. :) x

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to MooLoon

MooLoon, you have just lifted my spirit and given me the motivation I need today. As I write this, I am in bed in severe pain from the belly button down... I needed to read this as I experience days that I am not able to do anything. I KNOW that you have been through so much for so long. I am so glad to hear that you are feeling so much better! 😊

MooLoon profile image
MooLoon in reply to 1Tia1A

Sending big hugs love and best wishes to you. Please don't suffer in silence, fight for your right to be pain free. Even when you feel like you are at the monent wretched with pain, remind yourself that there are solutions out there ehen you are ready to pit an end to your suffering. Wishing you all the best for your pain free future xx

1Tia1A profile image
1Tia1A in reply to MooLoon

Thank you Sis! I am determined to get better and pray that a trustworthy cure will be found so that this is no longer an illness that causes unmentionable pain. I just can't understand how science can put a man on the moon yet women still suffer from endometriosis. I'm usually not irritable but, after several days of unending pain I get frustrated. Now that I think about it, this it's also why I seclude myself. I don't like for people to see me this way. Thanks for understanding. This means a lot. 😊

Alarna profile image
Alarna

Yes i do as feel like no one understand even when u explain everyday

Alarna profile image
Alarna

I always say i dont wont them to over but deep down i do but now i carnt

Blake16 profile image
Blake16

at work and with friends who just dont understand makes me isolated

KimHat profile image
KimHat

For years it felt like most people around me didn't believe me. Especially my husband and in laws. Even now they keep going on about positive thinking.

Doggiedogmom1973 profile image
Doggiedogmom1973

family didn't believe i needed help with my pain, and my work sacked me. Now its a big bun fight that whether I needed help and more understanding from my family/work, now that I've done lots to get myself better.....too late mate.

When I was at college and with family as well.

most of the time x

Amyskb profile image
Amyskb

With family and friends!

Chickens4ever profile image
Chickens4ever

When I was at University, different doctors told me that my pain was actually caused by depression. I kept telling them that I wasn't in pain because I was depressed, I was depressed because I was in pain. Eventually, I believed them and I felt like a very messed up person for years. Lost confidence and left University. (Psychological pain isn't a good enough reason to be a week late handing in a first class assignment!) Had employers ask me how I couldn't walk when on a period. Very unkind.

Emma-endo profile image
Emma-endo

The loneliness that I feel is that there is no immediate help for the pain

A dr once told me that it's a part of being a woman 🤦‍♀️great thats helps and also gave up work because employer didn't believe me i could bearly walk and some family members just thibk your putting it on until you have a operation then there like oh i didn't realise 🙄

lorraine1981 profile image
lorraine1981

Some of my family and friends think its a made up disease and it'll disappear if i lose weight and do more

Bubble_by profile image
Bubble_by in reply to lorraine1981

I've heard the same thing

GeenaL profile image
GeenaL

Yes all the time. Especially with my last gyno. She told me I was too young for it to be so bad

thara9643 profile image
thara9643

Yes

conlou profile image
conlou

Dr once said to me think you have Medical Anxiety come back within a few weeks if you still having problems. Because I was back and forth in pain for 2years

KatyLB profile image
KatyLB

Often I feel isolated by my husband or friends. They don't purposely make me feel this way but they don't understand the condition or how living with chronic pain and fatigue literally changes you as a person. I know they don't mean to be dismissive of my issues but I think that as I have been unwell for 2 years or so that they are a little bored of hearing about it so I don't talk about it anymore, I try to keep my pain to myself. That is why this forum is so important, I am glad I have found it and can share with others that understand how I am feeling.

I have however been very lucky with my employers, my manager has been fantastic and so understanding which I know isn't always the case for many endo sufferers x

Bluemoon99 profile image
Bluemoon99 in reply to KatyLB

Thank you KatyLB. What you wrote really made sense for me.

Red1233 profile image
Red1233 in reply to KatyLB

Very true

nishabhardwaj profile image
nishabhardwaj

I have pain and no-one believes me in my family except my husband.

Otohime profile image
Otohime

When I googled endometriosis, symptoms shows only little. Even ones with NHS. I only recently realized how much effects endometriosis has to all of us. Maybe it needs to be updated? ToT So that everyone can be aware and understand how to detect if we have endometriosis and how to get the support we need, whether it's medical or mental from families, friends, colleagues and professionals. :)

vizzle_01 profile image
vizzle_01

Yes, I work on an all-male team. I'd be worried about speaking to my manager (male) about it. I feel it would make me more vulnerable telling him and don't trust him not to tell the rest of my team. When you've had comments like "why have you not had children yet!?" from team members it doesn't fill me with hope 😔

Endo_Jaded profile image
Endo_Jaded

Doctors don’t listen, surgeons tell you you’re urgent and 4 years later you are still waiting. Your first MRI shows it’s disastrous, 12 months later without support or medical help other than more pills, you pay for another private MRI sand discover that even with menopause inducing drugs, it’s grown, went deeper and took more of you, while waiting urgent hysterectomy. Friends don’t understand and others believe misinformation and run with it. Now I’ve lost two teeth due to taking constant pain relief for 4 years. I’m 34 and Endo has ruined my life, took my career, friends and health.. this is one of the most isolating and lonely diseases for a woman. And to top it off it’s usually other woman that are the most hurtful to others.

Where I am, we have no excision and no real specialists either.. so far behind. I have 10mm infiltration into bowel now from waiting so long amongst others.

We need more support and better support.

Anne357 profile image
Anne357

I cant believe how doc dont believe your symptoms.My GP told me waiting time for gyne is so long so I will sent u to see General Consultant ...General Consultant never asked me about my diet and just said probably u have IBS and send for abdominal ultasound which i already got in here and abroad few times.Now waiting for colonoscopy when i should see gyne already i believe.Tired of this ....Thank u for your support group🌻🤗

30 years suffering, belittle, and ignored by doctors. I had to pay for my own laparoscope one month ago. Multiple miscarriages all my life, no kids Doctors said I didn't have endo. Well results of my laparoscope say endometriosis level 4, both ovaries surrounded by endometriomas. I gave results to my for 20 years ginecologist he just said "I told you not to stop taking birth control. No treatment, no medications, no diet... there is nothing to control this illness?

Awwy profile image
Awwy

Apparently according to one junior male doctor its just a period and I shouldn't be such a drama queen. According to another gynaecologist when I was explaining passing out from the pain her response was 'so what?! What do you want me to do about it?!'

I am the only girl in the family so my brothers response after doing a little research was. Its very common 1 in 10 women have it. Cant be that bad.

Tealandgold profile image
Tealandgold

Yes, I frequently have to cancel social events due to endo symptoms and it leaves me feeling left out, miserable and lonely!

Maume profile image
Maume

I think its difficult for anyone who does not have endometriosis to know what i'm going through. They can't just understand.

AMJ88 profile image
AMJ88

I'm incredibly lucky to have a supportive husband, attends every appointment with me and he gets frustrated by the lack of support that is offered from DRs.

TheBeachBabe profile image
TheBeachBabe

Yes....

By my GP when she didn't make my referral easily, questioning everything and ultimately delaying the process.

By friends and family - when I have used a hot water bottle and taken max dose pain killers and they don't understand and think I'm being wimpish.

By my ex when we had sex and he didn't stop when I was obviously in so much pain and refused to talk about it afterwards.

Chronic21 profile image
Chronic21

At work mainly my family are very supportive but they're miles away from where I now live. Been made to feel guilty for being sick or forgot something by people at work, lost jobs over it because I asked for some time off or to work from home,because I'm struggling to function or they found out the medications I got put on and instead of discussing it with me like an adult stated "should you really be taking that" or "my niece has the same condition it's not that bad"It made me feel misunderstood, like no one was actually listening and that honestly that no one cared for my wellbeing. I honestly wanted to give up and I nearly did, it has been 1 year now since I nearly took my own life due to how people are uneducated on this condition leading them to jump to conclusions and mistreat me.