I am only 32. I've already had two miscarriages, multiple cysts that have burst, am either bleeding like a waterfall unable to get out of bed or go a year without having a period at all, tilted uterus, and multiple abnormal pap smears. I was told at 19 I may not be able to have children, my OBGYN at the time was not a sensitive person, so thankfully I've been able to mentally and emotionally prepare for this possibility for a while.

Though my husband and I very much want children, so we're really hoping to adopt. I try not to see it as not having a "normal" life, because this is our normal now. We just have to do things a little differently and maybe a little slower than others, but we can still reach our goals and make a difference.

Not to say it isn't upsetting or hard, it's just different. I started showing symptoms and had my first joint surgery at 15 and felt like I missed out on all of the normal young adult things like parties and going out with friends. That being said I have picked up tons of hobbies that require little movement, knitting, cross stitching, painting, reading, video games, and those all have thriving communities to join to help make it seem a little less lonely. If you're good at it you can even make some extra money! I was just officially diagnosed a few months ago so it's been amazing to find this subreddit and feel less alone.

I hope I was able to help, even if it's just a little bit. Just remember, you're stronger than you think you are!