Speak up about endometriosis
A Facebook support group is available for women suffering from endometriosis.
For many women, endometriosis is a disease they learn to manage and live with.
When it’s time for their menstrual cycle, other people often wonder why they cannot function effectively, but anyone who has the condition will understand – the disease can be debilitating and there is no cure.
For Cheryl Moses (nee Mostert), a Primrose resident, the disease and managing it, has taken up many hours of her life.
She has been suffering from endometriosis for the past 15 years, having been diagnosed at the age of 19.
“Before my diagnosis, I was misdiagnosed by multiple doctors, so when the correct diagnosis was finally given I felt a sense of relief, although there was also fear of the unknown as I was uneducated about the condition,” she said.
“I have since had nine surgeries to help assist with the pain and other symptoms, in 2017 I had three major surgeries, including the loss of my ovaries.”
Young K, et al. J Fam Plann Reprod Health Care. 2013 Bulletti C, et al. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010 defines endometriosis as follows: “Endometriosis (en-doe-me-tree-oh-sis) is a difficult to understand disease, which persists for a long time, and keeps coming back as there is no cure. It affects one in 10 women and is often a painful disease affecting women in their reproductive years. It occurs when tissue that acts a lot like the lining of your uterus (womb) – called endometrium – starts growing outside of your uterus, where it doesn’t belong. This out of place tissue (lesions) can cause extreme pain and can also send out “web-like” structures that can attach to other organs causing further pain and complications. Endometriosis can severely impact on the quality of life for women with the disease.”
Download the endometriosis physician questionnaire here:
Endometriosis Physician Questionnaire
As she experiences the pain of endometriosis and often the ‘disbelief’ of non-sufferers as to how the condition affects a person, Cheryl decided to start a Facebook support group where like-minded people who have an interest in endometriosis can discuss issues.
“Many women and girls have painful periods but are told its normal.
“It’s not,” said Cheryl.
“When you miss school, work, social or sports activities due to painful menstruation then you may suffer from endometriosis.
“We can help you.”
The Facebook support group called South African Endometriosis Support was started in April last year and already has 1 083 members.
To join the group please follow the link: https://m.facebook.com/groups/1319002964863357.
“I use the group to raise awareness about this painful disease, place credible medical information and offer much-needed support.”
Cheryl also has a number of other plans with regard to creating awareness about the condition and educating women and young girls.
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“I have a website in the pipeline and will be printing educational material to take to schools where I hope to be able to speak to young girls and their mothers about endometriosis.
“I also want to get involved in companies’ wellness days where I can discuss endometriosis with women employees,” she said.
The group offers a place where endometriosis survivors can feel included and understood rather than isolated and alone.
“It is a safe place where people can share their personal endometriosis journey with people who understand,” Cheryl said.
“It also serves to dispel myths around the disease.”
Cheryl, who works full time is studying financial accounting and is a mom to 13-year-old twins Kiyandré and Kiyarah, said she greatly appreciates her partner Carl Bennett.
“He is my rock and support.
“He is always there for me and helps me, as the disease affects the whole family.”
Cheryl urges women to break the silence and speak up about endometriosis.
Download a symptom checklist here:
Endometriosis Patient Materials – Symptom Checklist
Common symptoms of endometriosis:
• Painful periods.
• Abnormally heavy bleeding during your period.
• Pelvic/abdominal pain.
• Difficult or painful sexual intercourse.
• Infertility/sub-fertility.
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