The Dr Louise Newson Podcast 283 - Hormonal changes and endometriosis: busting myths and seeking help
Nov 19, 2024
In this discussion, Jen Moore, a passionate campaigner for endometriosis awareness, shares her personal journey of battling late diagnosis and multiple surgeries. She emphasizes the importance of finding a specialist, not facing the struggle alone, and persevering through the often exhausting treatment process. Jen debunks myths surrounding endometriosis, highlights the emotional toll of being disbelieved, and discusses the vital difference between symptom management and addressing the underlying disease. Her insights aim to empower others on their health journeys.
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Endometriosis Is A Whole-Body Mystery
- Endometriosis is a whole-body condition where uterine-like cells appear outside the womb and can be found on many organs.
- We still lack a definitive cause and several early theories like retrograde menstruation are incomplete or debunked.
Symptoms Often Extend Beyond Periods
- Many symptoms of endometriosis are period-related but the condition also causes non-period symptoms like back pain, chest pain, urinary and bowel issues.
- Misdiagnosis happens because symptoms vary widely and clinicians still treat painful periods as 'normal' too often.
Ask For Referral If Your Doctor Is Unsure
- If clinicians are unsure, they should say so and refer or find a specialist rather than dismissing symptoms.
- Ultrasound and MRI can miss disease, and surgery is the current diagnostic standard but only when done by skilled specialists.