Unwrapping the Red Tent: Menstruation, Endometriosis and Sisterhood.

Today’s topic; Down side of periods,those-not-so-fun companions that may wreak havoc on our daily lives.

Let’s face it, menstruation is a normal part of life for many of us.But that doesn’t mean it’s always smooth.Cramps,bloating, mood swings and yes also ovulation friends-they tend to twist out routines.We tussle to find the most comfortable and affordable pad or tampon,effective pain relievers and cross fingers every other moment for a leak-free day(completely normal ladies no shame in it).

But what if your period is more than what is considered standard? The flip side of it all is endometriosis.

Around 10%of women if reproductive age don’t have it easy. This translates to about 190 million women worldwide.Yes, that’s huge.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing serious pain during your period and throughout the month.

And Let me say this reaps away your joy and energy and impacts on your intimacy. Let’s not forget the emotional detriment- frustration, anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

The health hazards of endometriosis.

• Chronic pain in your pelvis, lower back, and abdomen during your cycle and this is as a result of the misplaced tissues’ response to hormonal changes.
• Infertility brought by blocked fallopian tubes and interference with egg implantation.
• Bowel and bladder snag causing pain or blood in the stool and urine.
• Mental health impact caused by the emotional toll of endometriosis.
• So how do we manage all this in our day-to-day lives and society?
• The health hazards of this condition take up so much of us but we still have to keep out heads up and here are some ways you can do that;
• Planning is crucial:Track your cycle and plan activities around your symptoms. You can use a free app Flo helps a lot.
• Be kind to yourself: Don’t push too hard when you’re feeling out of sorts. Take that hot bath,snuggle to a book or film,do whatever makes you feel relaxed at that moment.
• Uphold yourself: Your health is your responsibility.If you suspect you have endometriosis,talk to your doctor. Don’t console yourself “that’s how periods are” there are factual treatment options.
• Find your community: Yes!Get yourself out there you don’t have to face it alone find other women who understand your experience and this is a stepping stone to a more positive approach and hope.

Lets seek information on the common myths about endometriosis.

• Painful periods are normal: No ladies this is not where you stand firm and say ‘Uvumulivu ndio mbivu” seek that consultation with your doctor and get the effective pain relievers.
• Your are too young to have endometriosis:This condition affects various age groups ranging from teens to young youths and yes millennials.
• A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)cure endometriosis: It only mitigates the condition by stopping the menstral cycle but doesn’t cure.
• Pregnancy cures endometriosis
• Using tampons or being sexually active causes endometriosis

Unfortunately,there’s no simple cure for endometriosis but there’s treatments that help mitigate the condition: hormonal therapy, prescribed pain medication or/and surgery such as hysterectomy(removal of the uterus)in sever cases.

Always ensure you check with your insurance provider to understand what treatments are covered,talk to your doctor to discuss the treatment options available that suits your needs and lifestyle and do seek for financial aids in various non-profit organisations that offer support.

Remember: Early and proper diagnosis is important to help manage the condition.

Always! Always! Remember you are not alone.Periods and Endometriosis are common but they don’t have to take control of your life.Be informed, advocate for yourself and find support to help navigate these challenges.

Let’s keep the conversation going:Share your experience and tips in the comment section below.