My Life With Endometriosis and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

2 CommentsPersonal Experience, , , ,

Before Endometriosis and PMDD

I was 26 years of age when I finally was able to put a name to the two conditions causing chaos in my life. After years of excruciating pain and unexplained behaviors, I now feel I have control over my health and body. 

My period started at the age of 12. I remember having awful cramps, overwhelming fatigue, nausea, and crippling headaches. I knew all of these things were normal with menstruation. However, I did not know that the intensity and severity of my symptoms were abnormal! 

Additionally, I assumed my attitude and behavior around menstruation were normal; mood swings and irritability are PMS symptoms, but my symptoms were more severe. Extreme mood swings, rage, and withdrawal from usual activities or relationships were repeated behaviors I was experiencing before and during my period. 

Crazy In Pain

I received my Endometriosis diagnosis at the age of 24. Confirming the pain I experience is abnormal. At 26, I was diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Noting my behavior is abnormal also. 

Together these two conditions gave me clarity and peace. They forced me to focus and listen to my body. 

Endometriosis and PMDD

To say that life is difficult with these two conditions is an understatement. Between Endometriosis and PMDD symptoms, some months I suffer for two-three weeks. Other times I suffer three-four weeks out of the month. Dealing with symptoms of each condition separately but also simultaneously during some months. 

Typically, I spot my Endometriosis symptoms before I notice my PMDD symptoms. Endometriosis affects the entire body, so I will start experiencing increased pain roughly two weeks before the start of my period. Headaches become frequent nearly impossible to find relief. Back and pelvic pain also increases in severity in the weeks leading up to my period, making any sort of movement uncomfortable. 

Moreover, it can be tricky for me to pinpoint my PMDD symptoms. Some months I do not notice my abnormal behavior, or PMDD symptoms, until after something has happened. Even more, forgetting behaviors and conversations with others. 

Moody, depression, isolation

With PMDD, the slightest inconvenience can set me off. I become extremely irritated and will withdraw from society. Falling into a depressive state, not wanting to socialize with close friends or family. Honestly, I can be just fine one moment, homicidally the next, then feel overwhelmed and ready to cry right after. 

Endometriosis and PMDD are both mentally exhausting. Brain fog is a symptom of Endometriosis. During my period, I tend to forget things easily and quickly. PMDD causes difficulty concentrating. There have been times when I have not been able to complete work tasks because I cannot focus. 

Warrior Status

Lastly, Endometriosis and PMDD can make it impossible to function or complete daily activities. The pain associated with Endometriosis can be debilitating. The highs and lows of PMDD can make life seem so dysfunctional. I’m not sure why I got so lucky to have two horrendous conditions, but every day I wake up ready to fight. These conditions do not define me. Often winning the battle, but they will never win the war. 

Comments (2)

  1. Jenny

    Thanks for sharing your journey with endometriosis and PMDD. Education is essential and as women, we need to have these conversations. As Black women, we tend to normalize pain and discomfort, so it’s great to read your fresh perspective after struggle for so long.

  2. Princess

    Sometimes our bodies are screaming at us and telling us that something isn’t right, but we don’t listen because what we experience is common, but not normal. I’m so glad you found out and were able to take care of yourself.

Comments are closed.