How Does A Couple Balance Having Fun At The Weekends With Keeping On Top Of Endometriosis Symptoms?

Jessica has endometriosis, and Chris is her partner. Together, they find ways to manage the condition and support each other through its challenges. Below they answer questions on how they balance enjoying each other's company at the weekends, with keeping on top of Jessica’s symptoms:

How does having an active weekend affect your endo symptoms?

From Jessica: This morning was a prime example! I traveled to London on Saturday, got home late, then Sunday was up early, worked, did some cleaning, walked an hour to our local cinema, did some food shopping, and came home and made dinner. This morning I could hardly open my eyes and I feel genuinely unwell. I should recover from this by mid to end of this week, but with other busier weekends, the fatigue impact can last all month and I have a much more painful, draining period.

From Chris: Since Jess has got better at managing her symptoms and keeping her energy levels up and pain down, I really notice the difference when we have a big weekend or late night. The fatigue and brain fog can last for weeks after, really outweighing any reason to be out that late in the first place.

Have you found ways to to enjoy the weekends, but also keep well for the working week?

From Jessica: Yes and no. I am a very productive person and I love to fit in as much as possible, but I also don’t know where the limit is and can really give myself a mammoth to-do list for the weekend, whether it’s fun stuff with friends or obligations like cleaning. I have to constantly check in with myself and ask if the list is realistic; Most of the time it’s not and I have to edit, but this is something I regularly struggle with. I think going to bed before 10pm, 11pm latest, and not eating too much sugar over the weekend, is the best way to keep me feeling balanced come Monday.

From Chris: I sometimes have to remind Jess that she is trying to reserve her energy levels! When she starts trying to pack too much into the day I will remind her that maybe we should take it easier and, most of the time, she agrees. It can also be really tempting to go to bed late and get up late at the weekend, so we definitely try to not do this too much, as it will have a knock on effect on Jess’ sleep pattern and energy levels.

What tips would you give to other couples?

From Jessica: I think the number one thing would be to track your symptoms, your activities, and the food you eat and regularly reflect on that and learn what you can do, can’t do, and what can be done in moderation. Also, if you really want to go out drinking on a Saturday night, give yourself the adequate time you need to recover on the Sunday. Learn how to balance your scales.

From Chris: I would advise having patience with each other as you find out what works for the person with endo and you learn how far you can tip the scales. It’s taken us years to get into a good routine where we know what we can do at the weekend and how much we can squeeze in. We still get it wrong sometimes too. It’s a constant balancing act that always need adjusting, so be patient.