Beginning of the end

By Bonnie

At Endo Warriors Aotearoa, we’ve combined two heartfelt write-ups—one shared in 2023 and an update from 2025—into a single blog to reflect this warrior’s ongoing journey with endometriosis. Her story is a powerful reminder that endo is not a one-time experience, but a lifelong battle for answers, care, and relief.

2023: Half the relief, knowing that something was actually wrong, the other half of the relief was knowing something could be done. I guess looking back, I likely had signs from the start. I didn't know what wasn't normal. Other girls my age couldn't understand the "accidents" of soaking through pads and my self-criticism started there.

Fast forward, I was dealing with a baby in my early 20s and I couldn't understand why I couldn't do "normal" things a mum would, like bending, and even holding my daughter. The sweat is horrific, embarrassing, and concerning. In my late 20s, I had my second child and last. We spent a lot of time in bed, feeding etc. Eventually, I couldn't get out of bed. Standing up and dizzy spells accompanied by the depression kept me incapacitated for months.

There were many blood tests, ultrasounds, and various exams by my doctor. I declined a transvaginal ultrasound due to pain. Nothing was ever picked up. I presented to the local after-hours with chronic right-sided pain. I was admitted to the Emergency Department with suspected appendicitis. I had a subsequent CT scan and was diagnosed with an infection in my tubes.

The follow-up appointment after this as a gynae outpatient and with recurrent infection, my gynae agreed to remove my tubes. When the laparoscopy rolled around, I was diagnosed with endometriosis. My right ovary and tube were stuck together behind my uterus, and my left ovary and tube were stuck to my left pelvic wall. Dense adhesions and lesions were found throughout my pelvis and pouch of Douglas. There was also an endometrioma.

I was asked in recovery about urinating and bowel movements, as I had some apparent constrictions from adhesions. However, I thought it was IBS. I never knew any different.

I just want to say, keep pushing everyone. Keep asking. Do the transvaginal ultrasound scan even if the tissue isn't picked up (weird, I know—another barrier to diagnosis). Keep going because you can get relief. Know I hold you all in my thoughts. I am with you. #endowarrior Thank you.

Update 2025 I have already shared a story. Diagnosed 2 years ago: adhesions, endometriosis, pouch of Douglas, ovary and tubes adhered to back of uterus and pelvic wall, and evidence of endometrioma. It's such a confusing disease with different findings at different ultrasounds (talking only of cysts and/or fluid collections).

Now two years on, I am having a hysterectomy and right ovary removal. I know this is not a cure. Happy that Cerazette is now subsidized. Totally backing all endo warriors this Endometriosis Awareness Month. Thanks to EWA for all you do. x