This lived-experience story is published in the writer’s own words.
After having each child of mine I ran into a new problem to add to the list, whether it be hormonal migraines or extremely painful period cramps, to (after my third baby) intense pain through my backside when using the toilet and immobilising pain during my period.
On my first visit to the doctor I was told it was a settling in period from having children, it can take six months. Second visit, have you tracked your eating, likely IBS. All of this while I had already self-diagnosed on the internet.
Third visit I was a little more pushy - just to be told that even though she believed it was endometriosis, she couldn't refer me as there was a complete stop on public referrals as they were too busy... money talks though. Thankfully, I had insurance. I had no problems before children (when we got the insurance) I said I would pay for the initial consult if it meant I could get some answers. Within 3 weeks I had an appointment and 2 months after that diagnostic surgery. I was incredibly lucky with my journey that took 4-5 years, but also my specialist even questioned if she would find anything due to my conceiving so easily. To hear the validation in what was found, but equally to hear it had grown completely between my ovaries (but somehow not covered) made me blessed to have my 3 children when I did.
Being dismissed was so hard especially when I knew what I was feeling wasn't normal for me, but that validation was the most rewarding feeling and I can only hope more get to have it!