My Endometriosis Diagnosis and Journey
- Kailey Mitchell
- Feb 10, 2023
- 3 min read
Written by: Kailey Mitchell 2/9/2023
Looking back, it's funny how I accepted pain as a part of life. My symptoms began when I was 16 with painful periods. I would sit out in gym and fall asleep in class. It was so normal that, honestly, I couldn't even tell when things got out of control - going from "uncomfortable" to leaving me altogether sapped and barely able to get through days at school or work. Adapting is one thing; having no idea what you're adapting TO? That's where our story really begins.
It got worse
When I turned 22, life suddenly became a medical mystery. My whole body felt like it was in turmoil; GI issues, my period pain getting worse than ever, bladder pain, and that sciatic leg pain continued. Doctors couldn't provide answers as every test came up negative for UTIs or anything else (though the tests seemed endless!) Ovulation through periods lasted two-three weeks with nausea, stomach pains, and severe constipation. To top it off, all I could eat was chicken & rice, oatmeal, and bananas. Endless trips to the ER with no answers. I never mentioned the period symptoms to my GI doctor or the GI symptoms to my OBGYN. To me, they were two separate issues.
After desperately searching for a solution to my pain, I was told things like anxiety and depression were the cause and having babies would make them disappear - which, of course, were anything but true. So, with determination in tow, doctor after doctor was seen. After hearing the 'ominous' phrase of "We are running out of options," - a mantra that's anything but acceptable. While I appreciated the honesty, I was not given any direction. I decided to take matters into my own hands and find an answer. Along the way came ultrasounds; procedures; MRIs; X-rays galore, plus blood tests by the billions...but no matter how hard it got, I was determined not to give up the quest for answers (even if making excuses did sound oh-so-tempting)!
Finally, an answer (4 years later)
At 26 years old, I became quite regular at my gastroenterologist's office. Little did I know that this would plant a seed of knowledge: the word Endometriosis had entered my life! After an awkward conversation with my OBGYN, she doubted I had endo but decided it was time for further investigation. Finally, in 2016 through laparoscopic surgery, my diagnosis came about. I was so relieved to have an answer, and I did not realize the battle ahead.
Over the years, I've seen a lot in symptom management- from crippling medicine side effects like night sweats and bone loss to trips for physical therapy—even another laparoscopic surgery. I’ve come to learn that the best medicine for my pain is a shift in perspective. I’ve tried changing everything from how and what I eat to switching up exercise routines, even switching jobs; none made so much difference as actively embracing mindfulness. It may sound cliche, but it works for me and is always accessible. On days when life seems darkest, little victories can make all the difference… And if you don't feel like celebrating? That's totally ok too…
Going forward
Now at 32 years old, I'm constantly fighting an uphill battle. Endometriosis has taken its toll and triggers other pain-inducing conditions like tendonitis, Raynaud's Syndrome, Srogrens, and Psoriasis. However, this past year has been one step too far - it forced me to give up my passion: hula-hoop dancing. A business I'd nurtured since 2011 that gave myself and those around me confidence in their abilities was no longer sustainable due to increasing strain on my body. Hooping helped to keep me sane while giving me confidence that others, too, could find healing through their own passions. I've also recently been diagnosed with Adenomyosis, aka Endo's evil twin. Now when faced with endo symptoms, I'm stuck between two extremes; days on end, stuck in bed versus moments free from aches that allow me to frantically get things done before the next flare hit again… Say hi to routine unpredictability!
A determined soul with an ambitious dream, I'm on a mission to get back hooping and
running the Endo 5k! But don't worry - I'm never going it alone with my robust family and friends' support system, plus my very special group. The "Endo Sisters Book Club," where we read books and podcasts and host virtual weekly support meetings, and the "CT Endometriosis Support Group," where we get together in person. It's all part of connecting, spreading awareness, and staying up-to-date on current research that helps me persist until one day when Endometriosis has a cure, and quality healthcare is accessible to everyone who needs it. Let's continue this fight together!
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