It's Not Just the Symptoms, but Also the Comments

The weeks before Halloween were tough. I’d been having a hard time sleeping due to back and hip pain. I kept tossing and turning, which did not help with my fatigue. I had not felt like doing much. I felt tired all the time.
My daughter even noticed how I didn’t have any energy to decorate for Halloween (By the way, I love to decorate.). I had trouble walking/standing/laying down. I thought to myself, it will pass, trying to comfort myself and be strong through it. Then came the comments.

Rude comments greeted me everywhere

A complete stranger at the doctor’s waiting area came up to me and said, “Want a good weight loss tip?”
I thought to myself, are you serious?
My answer: “No.”
She persisted. “But it’s very good.”
I just turned away thinking, what is wrong with this person? What right do they have to judge and want to give me advice when I was just there sitting minding my own business? Why do I need to tell them I have endo? It’s none of their business.
Then, at work, I ran across a co-worker I hadn’t seen in a while and she asked, “Are you pregnant?” Yet again, my mind was just thinking, ugh! Endo belly! I said,”No,” but this time I did say, “It's endometriosis.”
She looked at me confused.

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Even my mom noted my swollen belly

Finally, there was my own mom – as soon as I walked into her home. No, “Hi.” No nothing. I was greeted immediately with, “Oh, my. Your stomach is so bloated. That’s not normal!”
I struggled to find words and just blurted out, “I haven’t had a period yet,” and left the room. Mind you, I have had gazillion conversations with my mom about endo. Sigh. It’s frustrating to constantly feel like no one understands. It just feels so lonely at times. I get tired of talking about it, but then also, when I do, I feel like no one listens. So, why bother.

I am grateful for the community support

I just go on through my day having to ignore symptoms, ignore comments, just being grateful to be alive and that I can be a part of this group that does understand. Thank you all!!! Staying hopeful.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Endometriosis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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