That your pain is normal.

Read on to learn more.

But it doesn’t have to come from just your mom’s side.

person lying on their back on their bed while wearing a white tank top and light blue jeans, holding their stomach and worrying about endometriosis myths keeping them from getting diagnosed

In other words, it’s not just something that “flares during your period.”

Unfortunately, endometriosis can sometimes progress to where there is pain every single day.

So, dont let anyone dismiss your pain.

Collage graphic of the best shoes for standing all day according to nurses, with the top pick being FIGS New Balance 3447 Zip shoes in gray, black, and white against a pink and orange background

author ofBeating Endo: How to Reclaim Your Life from Endometriosisand founder ofIris Wings Sanctuary For Endometriosis Surgery & Wellness

Preliminary research even suggests the possibility of endometriosis existing in the body well before puberty begins.

“But that is just treating symptoms while the disease progresses,” she adds.

Of course, surgery isn’t theonlystep.

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

This is why IC is also referred to as “endos evil twin,” she adds.

“This often happens with the gut, and you’re labeled as just havingIBS!”

“Your pain is real,” says Dr. Kerin Orbuch.

alt

“I always want women to know that I believe their pain.”

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

author ofBeating Endo: How to Reclaim Your Life from Endometriosisand founder ofIris Wings Sanctuary For Endometriosis Surgery & Wellness

LOS ANGELES - FEB 10: Patrick Schwarzenegger at the White Lotus Season 3 Premiere at Paramount Studios on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA

Woman drinking a protein meal replacement shake in the kitchen