Ella Henderson 'struggled with chronic pain for years' due to disease that affects 1 in 10
Ella Henderson has opened up about living with endometriosis following her diagnosis in January in a video shared on her Instagram.
Endometriosis happens when cells similar to the ones in the uterus lining are found elsewhere in the body. The cells can then grow and change when responding to hormones in the menstrual cycle, which can cause pain, scar tissue and inflammation.
Endometriosis is one of the most common gynaecological conditions, which affects 10% of women from puberty to menopause but the impacts can be lifelong, that equals to over 1.5 million in the UK alone. In the UK, 1 in 10 women have endometriosis and on average up to 9 years to get an official diagnosis.
Ella revealed that her official diagnosis came after "years of struggling with confusing and challenging health problems including stomach bloating, bowel pain and heavy periods, plus countless GP appointments leading to scans, tests and the feeling that maybe the pain was in all in my head."
"[My diagnosis only] came after a laparoscopy, which found severe endometriosis behind my uterus and scar tissue affecting my bladder and bowel."
She said she felt relieved that everything she was feeling and the pain she was experiencing was not in her imagination and, whilst difficult to accept her condition, she felt it was "validating and empowering" and that she "could finally find a way forward and take control of my body."
Ella added that if her symptoms were recognised sooner by health practitioners she could have been spared the "chronic pain, not being believed and constant misdiagnosis [that] led to periods of depression, isolation and anxiety."
However, she confirmed she was glad that she was able to receive appropriate and life changing support. "In my case was surgery, that has so far helped to significantly reduce my symptoms," Ella said.
Endometriosis charity, Endometriosis UK, works to reduce the lengthy diagnosis time and calling on the Government to make sure menstrual support education is put in place in all schools. Improving the knowledge and understanding of the condition to all healthcare practitioners - GPs, pharmacists and A&E doctors.
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Ella reflected on times when this condition severely impacted her; when she was a teenager and the times she "missed school due to severe period pain and fatigue". And more recently, needed time off work after previously having "pushed through intense pain just to maintain appearances."
Ella explained that she doesn't want future generations of women to go through what she did. "I know my situation isn't unique, and too many women unnecessarily suffer with undiagnosed endometriosis for far too long."
In turn, she's partnered with Endometriosis UK to help those with the condition feel a sense of empowerment in knowing what is actually going on with their bodies. Ella concluded how important it is to have "more open conversations about menstrual health and endometriosis."
"Spreading awareness and knowledge by having wider discussions on the matter is key. The only way we can feel more comfortable and in control is by sharing our own experiences."
Emma Cox, CEO for Endometriosis UK said: "Endometriosis UK applauds Ella for sharing her experience of endometriosis in such an open and frank way, highlighting the significant and detrimental impact the condition can have on all aspects of someone's life."
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