Recently, I’ve been on a reluctant medical journey that has an origin in my reproductive system. My experience of becoming and being a woman is that of intense physical pain, since Day One. It has been getting worse as I’ve gotten older.
Finally, I had the money, resources, and encouragement to find out what was wrong. Over the last several months, in short order, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), discovered two fibroids and an ovary covered in cysts, needed a cervical biopsy (cancer-free, thankfully), and got an IUD. It’s been a long, frightening road but thanks to close friends and family, I’m on my way to managing the pain and hopefully, improving my life and health for the better.
Here are some lessons I learned that might be helpful for you:
- If you are feeling lonely or scared, reach out. There are people in this world who love you deeply and want to help you through it. Trust this.
- Talk about what ails you. Obviously, there are certain levels of this depending on your relationship to people but don’t give into shame, be truthful. Often people will share their stories; you will know you aren’t alone. Everyone’s bodies are different and will react differently. Listen to what yours is telling you.
- Self-care is so important. Slow down, be kind and gentle with yourself and your body. Get to know how to care for yourself and do it.
- It’s okay to cry.
- Recognize this path as part of your long journey and relationship with your self and body.
Thanks for reading.
Drinkers with Writing Problems 