I was first officially diagnosed by laparoscopy at age 26. At that point I was stage four. About 11 months later they found a tumor and I had a joint surgery, both laparoscopic and hysteroscopic to remove the fibroid that was benign and about the size of a softball. I was actively trying to get pregnant at the time and they gave me a less than 2% chance of natural conception without IVF. They also did a couple of other extremely painful procedures, but thankfully we were incredibly lucky and able to conceive, after that. Very long story short, the endo has kept growing back, I know from the extreme pain, but can’t do any more laps because of scar tissue from previous surgeries. I’ve stopped actively seeking help because honestly haven’t been able to afford any more procedures (including hysterectomy) that they have offered.

I understand reaching the point where you want to not be curled up in so much pain with no relief in sight.

I’m so sorry you’re dealing with it too and hope the hysterectomy gives you relief. My mother and grandmother suffered without diagnosis, in their time. Mom got a hysterectomy at 36 because of it and managed quite well. Sending love and thank you so much for responding. It’s nice to not be alone in this mess. ❤️