Woman hospitalised with debilitating pain finally receives endometriosis diagnosis after years of dismissal
A woman has spoken of her relief after finally receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis following years of excruciating pain that led to hospitalisation. Paige Hughes, from the UK, endured debilitating symptoms for years before doctors identified the underlying cause – a condition affecting roughly 10% of women globally.
Hughes’ journey involved a multitude of symptoms and a frustrating search for answers,ultimately leading her to advocate for better understanding and support for those with menstrual and hormone health issues. “You deserve to be listened to, always,” she stated. “You deserve real, qualified support that helps you understand yoru body, not suppress it.”
For years, Hughes battled crippling pain, initially dismissed or misdiagnosed.Last year,after implementing a holistic approach to her health – including reflexology,somatic body practices,improved diet,vitamins,prioritising sleep,journaling,meditation,education,therapy and physical workouts – she began to feel significant enhancement. “It hit me around summer how amazing I felt, and that brought with it a sense of grief that I had been depriving my body of this level of connection and care before now,” she explained. “When you feel truly healthy, it becomes clear to you how crap you felt before.”
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing inflammation, pain, and perhaps infertility. Symptoms can vary widely, including severe menstrual cramps, chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, and digestive issues. Diagnosis often involves a significant delay, with many sufferers reporting years of navigating the healthcare system before receiving a definitive answer.
Hughes is now dedicated to helping others navigate the challenges of endometriosis and menstrual health. She runs workshops aimed at empowering individuals with knowledge about their bodies and advocating for their needs. “There’s so much about menstrual and hormone health we weren’t taught in school,” she saeid. “I run my workshops and people are like,’I can’t believe I didn’t know this,what the hell?’ There is always more than one path,and you’re allowed to choose the one that feels right for you. Trust your body, it knows what you need better than anyone.”
