From discomfort to debilitation

“Pain would radiate down my thighs, and I would also experience considerable bloating and back pain throughout the whole week and leading up to it. Although I knew it was bad, I thought it came with the territory of being a woman and that experiencing regular pain was just something I had to endure. I only went to the doctors for the first time about it when I was 21 and was told that I was displaying symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which didn’t seem right as it really flared up every time I got my period.”

It wasn’t just the period pain that Charlotte experienced. 

“The effect that the pain and severe discomfort had on my stomach and bowels prevented me from socialising and sometimes even going to family or friends’ houses due to the constant worry and stress of needing to be near a toilet. I couldn’t leave the house without having painkillers with me and would often take a hot water bottle or heat pad with me if I went anywhere in the car.” 

“I am fortunate that my job allows flexible working, so I am able to stay at home where I'm more comfortable if I am having a flare up, or do not have enough energy to face the office.”

“I have also resisted relationships for years due to the pain, symptoms and overall impact that would have. It has made me feel incredibly lonely – not usual for someone of my age.”

Despite all this, Charlotte had to persevere when it came to asking for further investigations.

“I had to go back to see my GP a number of times. Eventually, I had enough as the pain was affecting my ability to work. I requested a referral to a gynaecologist, deciding to go through private healthcare insurance to book an ultrasound, and also arranged a consultation appointment.”

The first consultation

Following her ultrasound in July 2024, Charlotte had her first consultation with Mr Mohamed Otify in October at The Wilmslow Hospital in Cheshire. She then had blood tests taken, an MRI. Following this, a robotic keyhole laparoscopy procedure took place in December, where Mr Otify confirmed Stage 2 endometriosis. He also fitted a hormonal Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) coil.  

“Getting an official diagnosis of endometriosis was a weight off my mind. It completely validated the pain and suffering that I had experienced. It was not in my head. And for the first time since initially flagging the issue, I felt listened to.”

“Since the surgery, the pain has drastically reduced. Previously, I hadn’t been able to eat that much as eating increased my pain. I am less tired, feel better in myself mentally as well as physically. I still have a little bit of pain on occasions as the coil is still settling down, but it is a lot less. If I feel anything, I take painkillers and it resolves. I now have enthusiasm to actually try and enjoy my life.”

Advice for fellow endo sufferers

And Charlotte has some lasting advice for any women who are struggling to get help with similar symptoms. 

“I would say keep persevering and push to be listened to. Make a list of your symptoms and document when you experience them throughout the month or week. Keep a diary so you know exactly what has gone on before you get in the door of your appointment.”

“Resting when you need to is so important – and being honest about the pain you are in is key – whether that is to your family, friends and your employer. Flare ups of endometriosis will drain you, and your body needs time. You may still have pain after diagnosis but this will likely be able to be managed far better once you get the care and advice that you need. Most importantly, though, always advocate for yourself and your body and someone is out there to help.” 

To find out more information about Endometriosis and to find a specialist, please click here.