Nicole’s seven-year journey to an endometriosis diagnosis
“I wasn’t believed because I hadn’t started my periods yet,” Nicole says. When her periods began a year later, her symptoms became “awful”.
“I wasn’t believed because I hadn’t started my periods yet,” Nicole says. When her periods began a year later, her symptoms became “awful”.
“I remember my first period so clearly because of the pain. It was overwhelming, confusing, and scary, but I told myself it must be normal. Everyone talks about period pain like it’s something you just deal with, so I did. I stayed quiet and pushed through, not realising that what I was feeling wasn’t normal at all.”
We’re pleased to share the following opportunities for people in Aotearoa New Zealand to contribute to endometriosis-related research and programmes currently being undertaken by universities and other organisations.
Emma got her first period at age 11 while gardening with her mum. When she went to the bathroom, she was surprised to see what she later described as a “little red monster.” From the very beginning, she experienced significant pain and soreness with her periods.
I have struggled with period-related pain since I was 10 years old. The first few years it wasn’t as bad, but I still had noticeably painful ovulation and menstruation. During this time I was also struggling with my health a lot—so much so that I had to take a few weeks off from school when I was in Year 8.
We sat down with 120 Challenger Ruby Langstone, who is living with stage four endometriosis, to talk about her journey, the validation that came with finally receiving a diagnosis after years of misdiagnoses, and why she is passionate about raising awareness.
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