Let’s Talk About Endometriosis , Because It’s More Than Just “Bad Cramps”

Hey, love. We need to talk. If your period pain feels like it’s bulldozing your insides, setting them on fire, and then reversing over them for fun, this one’s for you.

I know, I know; everyone tells us “periods are supposed to hurt” like it’s some twisted rite of passage. But what if I told you that extreme pain isn’t normal? What if I told you that what you’re feeling might actually be endometriosis?

Yep, let’s get into it.

What is Endometriosis?

Okay, imagine your uterus (or the area where your uterus would be) has a wallpaper, this is called the endometrium. Every month, your body prepares for a potential pregnancy by thickening that wallpaper. If there’s no pregnancy, the wallpaper sheds. Hellooo, period.

Now, with endometriosis (or “endo” as we call it in the streets), that uterine-like tissue starts growing in places it should NOT be, like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, or even other areas of the body. And because it’s in the wrong place, it doesn’t know how to leave when your cycle comes. So instead of shedding like it should, it gets trapped, inflamed, and starts causing chaos.

How Do You Know If You Have It?

Let’s break it down:

1. Pain that disrupts your life. If you have to cancel plans, call off work, or feel like you might pass out from cramps.

2. Pain during or after sex. If intimacy feels like someone is stabbing you from the inside, it’s worth looking into.

3. Heavy bleeding or irregular cycles. Changing pads/tampons every hour? Clots? Bleeding between cycles? Not normal.

4. Severe bloating. (We call it “endo belly” and it’s NOT fun.)

5. Digestive issues. Constipation today, diarrhoea tomorrow, nausea for no reason? Endo loves messing with the gut.

1. Fertility struggles. Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility, but early diagnosis can help with treatment options.

Can It Be Treated?

There’s no cure yet, but there are ways to manage it: Pain relief meds – Anti-inflammatories, hormonal therapy, and birth control can help some people.

Surgery – Doctors can remove some of the misplaced tissue (but it can grow back).

Lifestyle changes – Anti-inflammatory diets, exercise, and stress management can make a difference.

Alternative therapies – Acupuncture, heat therapy, and CBD have helped some folks.

But let’s be real: getting diagnosed is HARD. On average, it takes 7-10 years (yes, YEARS) to get a proper diagnosis. Why? Because doctors often dismiss reproductive pain, and research on conditions like endo is still lacking.

Why Comfort Matters!

When you’re dealing with unpredictable pain, bloating, and heavy flows, the last thing you need is uncomfortable period care making things worse. This is why we at Sheba Feminine believe in giving you options that work for YOUR body, because every cycle is different.

For those with endo, switching to a menstrual cup can be a game-changer.

Why?

1.  It holds more than pads or tampons, so fewer changes = fewer interruptions.

2. It’s gentle on the body—no dryness or irritation.

3. Less waste, less spending—because dealing with endo is expensive enough.

Of course, cups aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether you’re a pad person, tampon loyalist, or cup convert, we’re here to make sure you have safe, comfortable options that make your period a little less stressful.

Why We Need to Talk About This

If this sounds like you, or someone you love, speak up. Too many people suffer in silence because they’ve been told that pain is “just part of having a uterus.” No. Chronic pain is NOT normal.

So, here’s what you can do:

1. Track your symptoms – Keep a journal of your pain, bleeding, bloating, and anything unusual.
2. Advocate for yourself – If a doctor dismisses you, find another one.
3. Spread awareness – The more we talk about this, the more people can get the help they need.

If you’re out here fighting endo every month, just know you are not alone. You’re not being “dramatic.” You’re not “weak.” You are strong as hell for dealing with this, and your pain deserves to be taken seriously.

Let’s keep this conversation going, because no one should have to suffer in silence.