Fertility and emotional wellbeing 

When I was diagnosed with endometriosis it came as quite a shock. I had regular periods and did not suffer significantly from period pain, so the diagnosis of stage 4 endometriosis following surgery to remove a cyst from one of my ovaries was quite unexpected.

What followed for me was a whirlwind of experiences and emotions, especially as I was informed that this could affect my fertility. I was engaged and looking forward to getting married and having children, but the advice from my specialist to start trying for a family immediately was something neither my partner nor I were ready for. I was only thirty and I had thought we still had plenty of time to decide when to have children.

I became frustrated towards my fiancé for not being ready to move our plans forward and towards friends who were dismissive and inattentive towards their children. I was angry at the ‘unfairness’ of the situation and found myself becoming bitter and depressed. I finally sought help through a counsellor who was a tremendous support in helping me identify and deal with the thoughts that were consuming my days and affecting my relationships. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of working with a professional to help address the emotional impact of this condition. I only wish that I had had the courage to seek this help earlier. 

Content Updated April  11, 2008