Hi everyone! My name is Sydney and I am an 18-year-old endometriosis warrior. I live in Connecticut but am from Rochester, New York. I first started experiencing symptoms of endo at age 12 when I got my first period. It took lots of visits and time to find the right doctors but I received my diagnosis via laparoscopy at age 14.
This procedure was done via ablation. During this procedure, I was told that I had stage 1 endometriosis and that the majority of it was on my bowels. It took me 2 years to find a doctor who believed in my pain and it was so relieving to finally have received a diagnosis. As you all know this is just the beginning. Endometriosis is something that takes time to figure out how to manage. Every person's body is different and it’s hard to figure out what form of treatment will work best. Throughout my pain management journey, I have tried physical therapy, acupuncture, birth control, hormone medications, yoga, and diet changes, amongst many other things. After 6 years I still haven’t found what works best for me other than having my heating pad constantly attached to me. Two years ago at age 16 I finally took the next step and went to see an Endometriosis specialist in Boston.
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After my initial visit with him, he decided to schedule me for excision surgery which I received in December of 2021. After this procedure, it was found that I had stage II Endometriosis and adenomyosis. After I received my diagnosis I had an iud placed to help try and relieve my pain. I had relief for quite a while after surgery but now 2 years later my pain is back to being excruciating almost every day. My symptoms include but aren’t limited to pelvic pain, back pain, hip pain, nausea, heavy bleeding, migraines, and chronic fatigue. My mental health has also been majorly affected.
I was always a very outgoing carefree person until I got sick. Once I became sick I stopped taking care of myself and spent every day in bed. I quit doing things that I enjoyed and became very isolated. Every day is a battle but us endo warriors are so strong and can get through anything. I would love to connect with more people this awareness month so feel free to reach out would love to get to know more warriors!