Welcome! I am so glad you’re here. I wanted to introduce you to the person behind the voice of this blog. A 27 years old woman, currently residing in the North Florida area.
I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management from Austin Peay State University and have worked in the medical field for the last seven years. Describing myself as an extroverted introvert. I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and relaxing.
In 2019, I was diagnosed with endometriosis. Looking back, it took about ten years to put a name to what was causing me excruciating pain. I was diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder in 2021. The two diagnoses finally gave me closure and answered previously unexplained actions and behaviors.
Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects the entire body. The pain experienced with endometriosis is due to endometrial-like tissue growing outside of the uterus. Endometrial tissue can grow throughout the entire pelvic region. Even found in the bowel, stomach, and diaphragm. This disease is so common that one in ten women have it.
Premenstrual dysphoric disease (PMDD) is a real Bad, Insufferable, Tormenting, Complex, and Harrowing disease! PMDD is like PMS on steroids. Women with PMDD experience symptoms starting one/two weeks before menstruation. Symptoms include irritability, rage, feelings of depression and/or hopelessness, and anxiety. Physical symptoms can present in ways such as breast pain and fatigue. PMDD is a severe disorder and women can experience extreme highs and lows. Like endometriosis, the cause of PMDD is unknown and there is no cure.
I created Black Women Feel Pain Too to shed light on conditions like endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disease within the Black community.
Black women are underrepresented in a plethora of spaces, and healthcare is no exception. When I received these diagnoses’; First, I listened to what my providers were telling me. Second, I went and did my own research. While researching, I longed to hear stories from other Black women. I wanted to know how they were feeling; how they were dealing with their health.
Most importantly, I wanted to see and hear other people who look like me discuss a topic that I was dealing with too. Unfortunately, the number of Black women discussing their endometriosis or PMDD was minimal. Then I decided to stand in that empty space, to help other women like me get the support and information they will inevitably seek out. I just want to use my voice and pain to inform and inspire others.
Overall, I am excited and nervous for you to go on this journey with me! Sit back, subscribe, and let’s discuss how we, black women, feel pain too