Just Diagnosed with Endometriosis? Here’s What You Need to Know.
You Aren't Alone
When I was first diagnosed, I struggled to connect with other women who looked like me diagnosed with endometriosis. I was unaware of how many women, especially women of color, were affected by endometriosis. You will run into women here and there that you may not even realize have endometriosis unless the discussion is brought up. There are so many support groups and networks via Facebook and Instagram that are helpful to your endo journey.
Check out our ENDO Guide with more details on support groups.
Don’t Be Afraid
I know that this is shocking and easier said than done, but you’re an Endo Warrior now, and you can get through this. Pace yourself, and don’t overdo it. You don’t want to put yourself in a scarier situation by doing too much. I was nervous and scared all at once when I was diagnosed. However, my doctor made me feel comfortable and explained everything in detail. I got lucky, but the more you know, the better you’ll feel.
Which brings me to my next point, DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Research, research and research
I can’t share this enough! You must research endometriosis every chance you get. Make sure that your sources are LEGIT! Unfortunately, many doctors aren’t equipped or knowledgeable about what endometriosis is, even though it’s a chronic illness that affects more than 200,000 women per year. It’s your job to research so that you can make the best decision for yourself, not for your doctor. Speaking of the doctors, please research your doctor as well and try to locate an endo specialist immediately! Finding someone who specializes in treating the condition makes it much easier for you in the long run.
Get a Health Journal
Start tracking your symptoms and flare-ups as soon as your diagnosed. Whether it’s a pain, menstrual cycle, the foods that cause your flare-ups, any diagnosis from the doctor, or reactions to certain medications, make sure that it’s all documented somewhere. Doing this will help you when you’re reporting and explains what’s going on with your body to your doctor. Listen to your body because if you don’t, it will stop you in its tracks.
A journal you can purchase is Your Personal Journey Log for Endometriosis created by me, Lauren R. Kornegay. You may purchase it on Amazon in Canada, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Purchase yours today.
Get Prepared
This will be a new journey that you’re about to start. Unfortunately, you may not be able to take some people with you. There will be times where the closest people so you won’t understand or show the support that you need. You may lose relationships with family members, friends, or even your significant others. There may be people who judge you without even knowing your story, and you’ll get some off the wall comments now and then. Push through, you can do this! But you’ll need to separate yourself from any negative energy.
Be prepared to run into doctors who aren’t educated in this matter, and you’ll have to be ready to get a second, third or fourth opinion sometimes.
Vitamins Are Your Best Friend
I love vitamins! Use them as much as possible to help you get your strength! Here are some vitamins below that may be beneficial to your endo journey.
• Vitamin B Super Complex
• Daily supplements
• Maca Root
• Turmeric
• Fish oil
• Chewable Ginger
• Moringa
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin C
• Iron
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Zinc
Look into our partners Semaine Health for their dietary supplements.
Avoid!
Yes, you read that right! There are so many things that you’ll need to begin to avoid to help with your endo journey. Create your own list of foods to avoid once you begin to learn your body and understand what triggers your flare ups.
Here’s some things that I try to stay away from:
• Caffeine
• Red meat
• Gluten
• Soy
• Dairy
• Fried foods
• Greasy foods
• Refined sugar
• Wheat
• Alcohol
• Processed foods
Yes, I won’t lie. I have cheat days, but I prepare myself to deal with them. And every endo sister loves herself some pizza!