“OMG, the pain is so much. Periods are really so difficult for me.”
“Oh, that’s expected during periods. Just take a painkiller and move on.”
How many times have we come across conversations like this?
Probably more often than we realise.
For many girls, this starts from their very first period. Painful periods are accepted as “normal”, painkillers become part of the monthly routine, and life simply moves on.
But it doesn’t always have to be this way.
Period pain can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical attention. One of them is *endometriosis*.
When I started learning more about endometriosis and adenomyosis, I realised how limited awareness about these conditions still is. Many women spend years believing that severe period pain is simply something they have to tolerate.
Endometriosis can begin at a young age, and it can sometimes take years to be diagnosed. Recognising the symptoms early and seeking the right medical advice can make an important difference in managing the condition, relieving symptoms and planning for future health and fertility.
This is why awareness matters.
We may not be able to change what earlier generations of women were taught about period pain. But we can certainly change what the next generation learns.
Let’s not teach our daughters that suffering through painful periods is simply a part of being a woman.
Let’s teach them to listen to their bodies.
Let’s teach them that severe or persistent period pain deserves attention.
And most importantly, let’s teach them that *asking for help is not an overreaction.*
At Nalini Speciality Hospital, Dr. Vivek Salunke and Dr. Shinjini Pande are working towards creating greater awareness about endometriosis and adenomyosis, from recognising symptoms and diagnosis to appropriate treatment and care.
As part of this initiative, Nalini Speciality Hospital has also started a Free WhatsApp community for endometriosis awareness, where women can access educational information, awareness videos and get an opportunity to have their questions addressed by experienced doctors.
Because painful periods should not simply be normalised.
Join the Nalini Endometriosis Awareness WhatsApp Community by sending a request to 9930876248 or scanning the below QR code.
Written by:
Kaumudi Titus Passanha
Endometriosis Awareness & Outreach Consultant
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Vivek Salunkhe / Dr. Shinjini Pande
For Nalini Speciality Hospital