Amy Henderson, a passionate advocate for endometriosis awareness, has bravely shared her decade-long struggle with the debilitating condition in a bid to shed light on the challenges faced by millions of women.
Endometriosis, a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body, affects 1 in 10 women in the UK. Despite its prevalence, diagnosis often takes years due to a lack of awareness and research.
A Decade of Misdiagnosis and Pain
Henderson recounted how her symptoms began in her teens but were repeatedly dismissed as "normal" period pain. "I was told to just take painkillers and get on with it," she revealed. It wasn't until her mid-20s that she finally received a definitive diagnosis.
The Emotional Toll
Beyond the physical agony, Henderson spoke candidly about the emotional impact: "It's not just the pain - it's the isolation, the feeling that no one understands what you're going through." She described how the condition affected her relationships, career, and mental health.
Breaking the Silence
Now working with Endometriosis UK, Henderson uses social media to connect with others facing similar battles. "Sharing my story has been healing," she said. "When women message me saying they finally feel seen, it makes everything worthwhile."
Calling for Change
Henderson is advocating for:
- Better medical training on endometriosis symptoms
- Reduced diagnosis times
- More research funding
- Improved workplace support
"We need to stop normalising women's pain," Henderson emphasised. "No one should have to fight this hard just to be believed."
