Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting around 10% of reproductive-aged women worldwide (≈176 million), according to the WHO. It occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pelvic pain, fatigue, and sometimes difficulties getting pregnant. Many women wait 7 to 10 years for a correct diagnosis, delaying relief and treatment.
Lessons from those living with endometriosis
Several celebrities have shared their stories to raise awareness of the disease and offer helpful advice:
Lena Dunham: “I wouldn’t leave until the pain stopped”
In 2018, at age 31, she opted for a hysterectomy after enduring years of intense pain. Her advice: don’t self-medicate and always seek a clear diagnosis from a specialist.
Tia Mowry: “My extreme pain turned out to be endometriosis”
She changed her diet: removing dairy, refined sugars, and alcohol to reduce inflammation. Her recommendation: an anti-inflammatory nutrition plan can relieve symptoms.
Padma Lakshmi: “They thought I would never have a child naturally”
She founded the Endometriosis Foundation of America. Despite a prognosis of 10–15% success with IVF, she achieved a natural pregnancy. Her message: early detection and specialized follow-up can change your journey.
Gabrielle Union: “My diagnosis was adenomyosis”
After 8–9 miscarriages and devastating periods, at 40 she received her diagnosis. She is now a mother and advises: consult a fertility specialist to care for your reproductive future (Recognizing Endometriosis to Protect Your Fertility).
Julianne Hough: “Having intercourse can hurt”
She has lived with intense pelvic pain since age 15. Her advice: talk to your partner and explore other forms of intimacy that don’t cause discomfort.
Jessica Williams: “Cramping is not normal”
Ignoring the pain for years delayed her diagnosis. Her phrase: “Avoid self-medicating without consulting a doctor.” If your symptoms limit you, always seek a second opinion.
Halsey: “Heating pads are lifesavers”
She combines painkillers (e.g., 500 mg of ibuprofen) with local heat (a 1 kg heating pad). “Sometimes just a bit of heat and rest makes the difference,” she says.
Monica: “I was hospitalized for migraines”
After an 8-hour surgery to remove cysts and fibroids, she shares her experience so you know you’re not alone (Helen’s Story: A Fight Against Endometriosis and Finding Hope).
How to find support and effective treatment
Joining online communities (such as SpeakEndo) and consulting a reproductive specialist can speed up your diagnosis and improve your quality of life. Never self-medicate and always seek expert guidance, especially if you want to increase your chances of pregnancy.
Sources
- World Health Organization. (2023). Endometriosis. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
- ACOG. (2021). Practice Bulletin No. 218: Endometriosis. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 135(3), e115–e132. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000004285
- Mahmoudi, Z., et al. (2020). Dietary interventions in endometriosis: A systematic review. Nutrients, 12(9), 2510. doi:10.3390/nu12092510
- National Library of Medicine. (2022). Endometriosis. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/endometriosis.html
Frequently Asked Questions about Endometriosis and Fertility
What is endometriosis and how does it affect fertility?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility in 30–50% of cases. Implants can block the fallopian tubes or affect egg quality. Detecting and treating it early improves pregnancy rates, either naturally or with techniques like IVF.
What are the main symptoms?
Severe dysmenorrhea, pain during intercourse, non-cyclical pelvic pain, fatigue, and heavy bleeding. Some experience lower back or digestive pain during menstruation. Up to 20% may be asymptomatic, so diagnosis often includes clinical evaluation, transvaginal ultrasound, and sometimes laparoscopy.
What treatments are available to control pain?
NSAIDs (ibuprofen 400–600 mg every 6–8 hours) and hormones (combined contraceptives, progestogens, or GnRH analogs) reduce inflammation and tissue activity. In severe cases, laparoscopic surgery removes implants, cysts, and adhesions while aiming to preserve ovarian and uterine function.
Can I get pregnant with endometriosis?
Yes. Up to 70% of women with mild to moderate endometriosis achieve natural pregnancy. In severe cases, IVF increases the chances to over 50%. Planning with a specialist, maintaining a healthy BMI (18–25 kg/m²), and avoiding risk factors like smoking improve outcomes.
We are with you on this journey. Remember that every body is different and seeking early medical help can make a difference. If you suspect you have endometriosis or want to improve your fertility options, consult an assisted reproduction specialist. Your health and your desire to become a parent deserve the best care.