Did you know that April is Adenomyosis Awareness Month?
The bigger question is, do you know what adenomyosis (pronounced add-en-o-my-OH-sis) is?
We wanted to shine a spotlight on this disease and give a voice to sufferers who have long been misdiagnosed, told they are being dramatic and left in pain and agony.
Our Director of Health and Wellness, Jade Walker, has taken some time out to interview Patti, a young woman living with adenomyosis, to unpack her journey with this often misperceived and under-recognised condition.
A Condition in the Shadows
While the world is slowly becoming more familiar with endometriosis, its lesser-known cousin, adenomyosis, remains shrouded in uncertainty.
Adenomyosis is a condition that effects the uterus, which consists of endometrial glands and stoma growing inside in the myometrium (the uterine muscle wall). This misplaced tissue causes debilitating pain, heavy bleeding, and a host of other disruptive symptoms that can profoundly impact a woman's quality of life.
Yet, due to a lack of widespread awareness and the complexities of diagnosis, many women and AFABs like Patti struggle for years to find answers and relief.
Patti's Story: My Fight for Diagnosis and Relief
Patti's story mirrors the experiences of countless sufferers with adenomyosis. From her teenage years, she battled excruciating periods and irregularities – warning signs that were often dismissed or inadequately treated by healthcare providers. This cycle of misdiagnosis and frustration led to years of unexplained physical and emotional suffering.
Simple tasks became monumental challenges, and the unpredictability of her condition put a strain on her career and financial security. She opens up about how the pain and the uncertainty seeped into her relationships, making intimacy difficult and creating complications with those who didn't understand her condition.
The Struggle for a Diagnosis
Yet, Patti's story is not one of defeat. Her persistent pursuit of answers and refusal to accept the status quo eventually led to a correct diagnosis of adenomyosis (and endometriosis). Jade and Patti discuss the vital importance of self-advocacy and relentless determination when navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, particularly with less understood conditions.
Integrated Approach: Exploring Other Options
Patti shares the ways she manages her adenomyosis with holistic approaches.
Exploring practices like yoga and meditation helped her pelvic floor muscles relax and promote circulation. Jade and Patti emphasise the necessity of a multifaceted approach to coping with adenomyosis, one that recognises the interconnectedness of body and mind.
The Importance of Finding the Right Support
Finding the right healthcare team was one of the turning points in Patti's journey. In the podcast, she talks about the difference that specialists made once they understood her condition and could offer real strategies and treatment options. The episode stresses the significance of finding compassionate doctors who truly listen to their patients.
Fertility Concerns: An Open Conversation
Patti thoughtfully addresses a subject that resonates deeply with many women navigating adenomyosis – fertility. She shares her experiences with openness and vulnerability, discussing the potential challenges of the condition. Her words highlight the importance of both understanding and support networks when talking about complex and potentially sensitive topics like fertility and women's health.
From Patient to Advocate
Patti's journey transformed her into a passionate advocate for herself and countless other sufferers. She shares the lessons she learned – navigating the healthcare system, connecting with support groups, and finding reliable information amidst the noise. Jade reinforces the power of community and how sharing experiences can break the isolation and shame often felt by those struggling with chronic conditions.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
This episode of the Hey Sister! podcast is a masterclass in self-understanding and self-care. Patti highlights the importance of sufferers learning about their bodies and the conditions that can impact them. She encourages listeners to seek out credible resources and never stop questioning when something doesn't feel right.
Hope and Resilience
Although adenomyosis brings ongoing challenges, Patti's story leaves us with an unforgettable message of hope and quiet strength. By sharing her experiences, she reminds sufferers everywhere that they are not alone and that there is power in speaking your truth and seeking help.
Watch the video here. Before we sign off, we want to remind you to never stop questioning when something doesn't feel right.
