The Sunday News
Tine Mataz
IN the month of March we celebrate endometriosis awareness month. Endometriosis affects 176 million women worldwide. Many women are not sure how they can cope and it is truly hard to cope. This article will delve into different ways a woman can cope with endometriosis.
1. Find what works for you: What may work for you may not work for another woman and vice versa, so it is important to find the correct treatment that works well for you.
2. Try everything once: You never really know if something works until you try it. Always choose treatments that you are comfortable with and don’t let anyone push a treatment on you that you are not comfortable with.
3. Pace yourself: Do not put any pressure on yourself and do what only your body can take. Plan each day carefully and try not to strain yourself in any way. If you can’t do everything at once, it is okay.
4. Get online: Facebook has numerous groups that provide endometriosis support. All you have to do is type in “endometriosis” and options will pop up. In these groups you will find sisters that are going through the same thing that you are. You can support them too and they will provide support to you as well. This eliminates the feelings of isolation and loneliness.
5. Be your own advocate: Nobody knows your pain as much as you do. If you feel a doctor is not treating you the way you like or listening to you with care and empathy, you should find another one who does. You are in pain so fight for what you know you deserve, and you deserve to be better. Also take time to research your condition.
6. Follow your diet: The endo diet is very important. Stay away from foods that increase oestrogen in your system. Also stay away from caffeine and alcohol.
7. Experienced doctors: Please do see a doctor who has experience with endometriosis. This will save you your time and save you from being treated incorrectly. Don’t give up. Continue to look for a doctor that gets you.
8. Heat pads: Invest in a good heat pad or a hot water bottle. Most times this helps a lot with the pain. Don’t doubt the hot water bottle.
9. Communicate: Communicate how you are feeling to your loved ones and to people you trust. Mental wellness is a great part of healing. When you feel down or overwhelmed, let people know so that they can offer you some support.
10. It’s not your fault: If you find yourself having negative thoughts about the sickness, take a deep breath and tell yourself that you are a warrior. This is not your fault. Remember that always.
11. Build a support network: Accept help from others. It does not mean you are weak. Some people may let you down, but try to not focus on them, but rather focus more on those who are there and have been there for you. Appreciate them.
12. Don’t wait: Your intuition is very important. If you feel something is off or wrong, do not wait. See your doctor immediately. You have the right to be well, so please do not fear judgement from others. Your health comes first.
Endometriosis is not the easiest of conditions to have, and has been termed one of the top 20 most painful conditions to have by the NHS. If you have endometriosis, be kind to yourself and if you don’t, be kind to someone who does.
For more information you may contact me on +263778026402. I am here for you.
