{"id":7846,"date":"2018-03-14T11:35:33","date_gmt":"2018-03-14T18:35:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/?p=7846"},"modified":"2021-08-18T02:57:33","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T02:57:33","slug":"how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/","title":{"rendered":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate When You Suspect Endometriosis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; specialty=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221; custom_css_main_element=&#8221;color:#333;&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; specialty_columns=&#8221;2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.25&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/How_to_be_your_own_Health_Advocate_Header.jpg&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]<p>by Heather Guidone<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]<p>Many facets of endometriosis continue to be hotly debated, and much is still unknown about the condition. As a result, access to quality care can prove difficult and the disease can be isolating, making it hard for affected individuals to advocate for themselves and truly feel they are being heard. Fortunately, there are a few steps we can take to navigate the journey.<\/p>\n<p>When we know better, we do better. Endometriosis education is the key to making informed decisions about our care, and educating those around us can also ensure that we have allies in our journeys.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221;]Those struggling with endometriosis can benefit from educating themselves as thoroughly as possible utilizing trusted, credible sources. Here are a few resources we recommend:[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; use_custom_gutter=&#8221;on&#8221; gutter_width=&#8221;2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>endometriosis.org<\/li>\n \t<li>endopaedia.info<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosis.ie<\/li>\n \t<li>topendodoc.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosisaustralia.org<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosisassn.org<\/li>\n \t<li>www.bepreparedperiod.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endocenter.org<\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>nzendo.org.nz<\/li>\n \t<li>endoinvisible.org<\/li>\n \t<li>caseyberna.com<\/li>\n \t<li>sarrelgroup.com\/salliesblog<\/li>\n \t<li>theendo.co<\/li>\n \t<li>endowhat.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endowarriorssupport.com<\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||||false|false&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]We also recommend educational groups like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/418136991574617\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Nancy\u2019s Nook for Endometriosis<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/endometropolis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Endometropolis<\/a> on Facebook. Be sure to also check out the scientific literature, which is constantly updated, and review the latest with your physician. Some of the best mainstream books on the disease include:[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>100 Q&amp;A About Endometriosis by David B. Redwine, MD<\/li>\n \t<li>Stop Endometriosis &amp; Pelvic Pain by Andrew Cook, MD<\/li>\n \t<li>A Key to Healing Through Nutrition by Dian Shepperson Mills<\/li>\n \t<li>FemTruth: Scandalous Survival Stories by Silvia Young<\/li>\n \t<li>Living with Lung &amp; Colon Endometriosis by Glynis D. Wallace<\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]As you do your \u2018homework,\u2019 be sure to gather all the knowledge you can about every treatment option \u2013 surgical\/traditional\/alternative \u2013 including the benefits of each, risks, possible side effects and likely outcomes based on data and reported experiences. Understand \u2013 and follow \u2013 the treatment plans you choose. It\u2019s important to also have realistic expectations about those treatments, including recovery times. Remember, you are a partner in your care and the leader of your treatment team, so don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions, speak up about side effects, or try another option.\n\nHere are some other important things to keep in mind as you handle endometriosis.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;blog-heading-style1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]1. Remember the importance of self-care: and practice it daily.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]Remember *you* are the expert on *you.* No one knows your body or quality of life better than you do. Pain is a good teacher; if you are getting signals that an activity is too painful or you need a break, listen to the message. It\u2019s okay to say \u2018no\u2019 to others, to take time for yourself, to avoid activities that exacerbate or induce a flare, and to navigate your own health journey in a manner that is best suited for you and your own lifestyle.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;blog-heading-style1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]2. Support is critical.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]Connecting with others who understand is an invaluable component in overcoming endometriosis. Often, those who have traveled the path before us will have valuable insights and lessons learned to share. Seek out legitimate organizations that can provide you with access to their endometriosis support networks and empowerment resources. Don\u2019t be afraid to tell your story \u2013 get involved in the fabric of the endometriosis community; when we help others, we are also helping ourselves.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; use_custom_gutter=&#8221;on&#8221; gutter_width=&#8221;2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/How_to_be_your_own_health_advocate_pinterest.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;blog-heading-style1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]3. Be a partner in your care[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]Gone are the days of the \u2018passive patient.\u2019 Remember that you are ultimately in charge of your own treatment decisions. Of course, respectful communication goes both ways, but don\u2019t be afraid to speak up; share your narrative and express your needs effectively to your health team. Be prepared: ask questions \u2013 bring a list \u2013 and take notes. Don\u2019 be afraid to ask a trusted friend or loved one to accompany you.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;blog-heading-style1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;0px|||||&#8221;]4. Insist on comprehensive, compassionate and continuous care from your providers.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]Learn the office policies of each and their protocols for emergencies. Seek a second \u2013 or third, or fourth \u2013 opinion, or even change practices if necessary. Endometriosis is a multidisciplinary disease, so you may very well also benefit from the expertise of other practitioners (PT, nutritionists, etc.) apart from your managing provider; don\u2019t hesitate to seek out such collaborative care and explore all the options available. Know your rights regarding insurance, health laws, workplace protections and other bureaucratic aspects of healthcare, and keep copies of all your medical records.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||||false|false&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_text module_class=&#8221;blog-heading-style1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]5. Raise awareness.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]By raising local awareness (or beyond), you are helping to elevate the disease to a priority public platform. Endometriosis continues to be dismissed by some physicians, caregivers, the media and public at large as simply \u2018painful periods.\u2019 This invalidation sustains the ongoing 10-12 year delay in diagnosis and leaves many suffering in silence. Help correct persistent myths and misinformation and insist on timely diagnosis, effective intervention, increased research and better support for yourself \u2013 and all individuals with endometriosis.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]You are not your illness: endometriosis does not define us or in any way lessen our worth. Step back from our culture of \u2018labels\u2019 and know that it is entirely possible to manage the disease effectively \u2013 on your terms, in your own way, in a manner you choose best for your life.\n\nAnd finally, don\u2019t give up: we have heard that \u2018there is no hope and no help\u2019 for this disease so many times that we might actually start to believe it. To the contrary \u2013 there is hope, there is help, and you are worth it. You are your own best advocate in your journey with endometriosis. Through knowledge, empowerment and collaboration with those who understand, it IS possible to live well in spite of the disease.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;]Heather Guidone is the Program Director at<em> <a href=\"http:\/\/centerforendo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Center for Endometriosis Care<\/a><\/em> &amp; Member of the Executive Board at <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endocenter.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Endometriosis Research Center<\/a><\/em>\n\nHey Endo Sisters and supporters! When you shop Be Prepared Period, you can feel good knowing you\u2019re supporting a business that supports Endometriosis research. Shop using the link below, and we\u2019ll donate 5% of proceeds to the Endometriosis Research Center. This offer applies all year round \u2013 so you can give back while you order your monthly supplies.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||||false|false&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Endo_Fundraising_Donation_CTA.jpg&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/idevaffiliate\/idevaffiliate.php?id=148&#8243; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; use_overlay=&#8221;on&#8221; overlay_icon_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0)&#8221; hover_overlay_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0.4)&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.4.1&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; text_font=&#8221;||on||||||&#8221;]Psst! Think you might have Endometriosis? Our free guide helps to separate fact from fiction. Click below to download it![\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Endometriosis-Guide-CTA.jpg&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/endometriosis-guide\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; use_overlay=&#8221;on&#8221; overlay_icon_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0)&#8221; hover_overlay_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0.4)&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;3.25&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; text_font=&#8221;|800||||||#ffffff|&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; text_line_height=&#8221;1.8em&#8221; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;|||10px|false|false&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;9px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243; text_text_align=&#8221;center&#8221;] <span style=\"font-size: large;\">RELATED RESOURCES<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;QUIZ: ARE YOU A PERIOD PRO?&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/bepreparedperiod.outgrow.us\/are-you-a-period-pro&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ARE-YOU-A-PERIOD-PRO-QUIZ.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243;]Whether you\u2019ve just gotten your period, or you\u2019ve been menstruating for a while, there\u2019s a lot to learn about your body. Take the quiz to find out how much you know about Aunt Flow.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;PERIOD 2GO KITS&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/period-kits\/period-kit-to-go&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/period-kit.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]You can&#8217;t always plan for your period, but you can always be prepared for its surprise arrival. Make sure you&#8217;re ready for when you spot the signs with our super cute and discreet 2GO Kits![\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;TIPS FOR PARENTS &#038; GIRLS SERIES&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/puberty-and-menstrual-tips-for-parents-and-girls-series&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/TIPS-FOR-PARENTS-GIRLS-SERIES.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243; global_module=&#8221;9626&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]<p>BPP\u2019s weekly email series will provide you with the tools you need to confidently prepare for the time ahead.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;BETTER YOUR PERIOD ACTION GUIDE&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/better-your-period-action-guide&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/BYP-Action-Guide.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243;]This FREE action guide not only shares the benefits of tracking your cycle, but provides a weekly checklist on how to optimize each phase of your cycle.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;MENSTRUAL SELF CARE GUIDE&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/menstrual-self-care-guide&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/menstrual-self-care-guide.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]With a self-care practice, you&#8217;ll find opportunities to slow down, recharge, and take care of your body.\nWe&#8217;re all about finding ways to go with the flow to add a little love to your time of the month.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;MENSTRUAL CUP 101&#8243; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/menstrual-cup-101\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/menstrual-cup-101.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221;]Menstrual cups have a long list of benefits that include: 12 hour protection, holds more than a super tampon, safer, better for the environment and the cost $avings!! Learn more![\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=&#8221;HORMONE BALANCING TEA FOR CRAMPS &#038; HOT FLASHES&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/other-products\/cramp-tea&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/HORMONE-BALANCING-TEA-FOR-CRAMPS-AND-HOT-FLASHES.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.15&#8243; header_text_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_layout=&#8221;dark&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px|&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; border_width_all=&#8221;20px&#8221; border_color_all=&#8221;#404040&#8243;]Herbal tea, an all-natural, safe and effective way of reducing or eliminating menstrual symptoms that plague women on a regular basis.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/cgi-bin\/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&#038;hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&#038;source=url&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; image=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Donate-to-PeriodTalk-blog-version.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.0.11&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#404040&#8243; background_enable_image=&#8221;off&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||0px||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221; link_option_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/cgi-bin\/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&#038;hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&#038;source=url&#8221;][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_slider _builder_version=&#8221;3.16&#8243; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#75c043&#8243; button_bg_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; button_border_radius=&#8221;0px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;|||&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;15px||15px|&#8221; button_border_color_hover=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0)&#8221; button_border_radius_hover=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;on&#8221; button_border_color__hover=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0)&#8221; button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;on&#8221; button_border_radius__hover=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221;][et_pb_slide heading=&#8221;Explore More Period Tips &#038; Articles&#8221; button_text=&#8221;Click Here&#8221; button_link=&#8221;https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/period-tips-to-ease-discomfort\/&#8221; use_bg_overlay=&#8221;off&#8221; use_text_overlay=&#8221;off&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;3.16&#8243; background_color=&#8221;#ec2288&#8243; button_on_hover=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221;][\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_section]\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>by Heather Guidone Many facets of endometriosis continue to be hotly debated, and much is still unknown about the condition. As a result, access to quality care can prove difficult and the disease can be isolating, making it hard for affected individuals to advocate for themselves and truly feel they are being heard. Fortunately, there [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" specialty=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px||false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px||false|false\" custom_css_main_element=\"color:#333;\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" specialty_columns=\"2\" _builder_version=\"3.25\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/How_to_be_your_own_Health_Advocate_Header.jpg\" align=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]by Heather Guidone\n\nMany facets of endometriosis continue to be hotly debated, and much is still unknown about the condition. As a result, access to quality care can prove difficult and the disease can be isolating, making it hard for affected individuals to advocate for themselves and truly feel they are being heard. Fortunately, there are a few steps we can take to navigate the journey.\n\nWhen we know better, we do better. Endometriosis education is the key to making informed decisions about our care, and educating those around us can also ensure that we have allies in our journeys.\n\n<!--more-->[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_margin=\"||||false|false\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\"]Those struggling with endometriosis can benefit from educating themselves as thoroughly as possible utilizing trusted, credible sources. Here are a few resources we recommend:[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner column_structure=\"1_2,1_2\" use_custom_gutter=\"on\" gutter_width=\"2\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px||false|false\"][et_pb_column_inner type=\"1_2\" saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>endometriosis.org<\/li>\n \t<li>endopaedia.info<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosis.ie<\/li>\n \t<li>topendodoc.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosisaustralia.org<\/li>\n \t<li>endometriosisassn.org<\/li>\n \t<li>www.bepreparedperiod.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endocenter.org<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type=\"1_2\" saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>nzendo.org.nz<\/li>\n \t<li>endoinvisible.org<\/li>\n \t<li>caseyberna.com<\/li>\n \t<li>sarrelgroup.com\/salliesblog<\/li>\n \t<li>theendo.co<\/li>\n \t<li>endowhat.com<\/li>\n \t<li>endowarriorssupport.com<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"0px||||false|false\"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]\n\nWe also recommend educational groups like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/418136991574617\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Nancy\u2019s Nook for Endometriosis<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/endometropolis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Endometropolis<\/a> on Facebook. Be sure to also check out the scientific literature, which is constantly updated, and review the latest with your physician. Some of the best mainstream books on the disease include:\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]\n<ul class=\"bullets_wrapper_check-square\">\n \t<li>100 Q&amp;A About Endometriosis by David B. Redwine, MD<\/li>\n \t<li>Stop Endometriosis &amp; Pelvic Pain by Andrew Cook, MD<\/li>\n \t<li>A Key to Healing Through Nutrition by Dian Shepperson Mills<\/li>\n \t<li>FemTruth: Scandalous Survival Stories by Silvia Young<\/li>\n \t<li>Living with Lung &amp; Colon Endometriosis by Glynis D. Wallace<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]As you do your \u2018homework,\u2019 be sure to gather all the knowledge you can about every treatment option \u2013 surgical\/traditional\/alternative \u2013 including the benefits of each, risks, possible side effects and likely outcomes based on data and reported experiences. Understand \u2013 and follow \u2013 the treatment plans you choose. It\u2019s important to also have realistic expectations about those treatments, including recovery times. Remember, you are a partner in your care and the leader of your treatment team, so don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions, speak up about side effects, or try another option.\n\nHere are some other important things to keep in mind as you handle endometriosis.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\" module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\"]1. Remember the importance of self-care: and practice it daily.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]Remember *you* are the expert on *you.* No one knows your body or quality of life better than you do. Pain is a good teacher; if you are getting signals that an activity is too painful or you need a break, listen to the message. It\u2019s okay to say \u2018no\u2019 to others, to take time for yourself, to avoid activities that exacerbate or induce a flare, and to navigate your own health journey in a manner that is best suited for you and your own lifestyle.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\" module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\"]2. Support is critical.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]Connecting with others who understand is an invaluable component in overcoming endometriosis. Often, those who have traveled the path before us will have valuable insights and lessons learned to share. Seek out legitimate organizations that can provide you with access to their endometriosis support networks and empowerment resources. Don\u2019t be afraid to tell your story \u2013 get involved in the fabric of the endometriosis community; when we help others, we are also helping ourselves.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" column_structure=\"1_2,1_2\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px||false|false\" use_custom_gutter=\"on\" gutter_width=\"2\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/How_to_be_your_own_health_advocate_pinterest.jpg\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" type=\"1_2\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]3. Be a partner in your care[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]Gone are the days of the \u2018passive patient.\u2019 Remember that you are ultimately in charge of your own treatment decisions. Of course, respectful communication goes both ways, but don\u2019t be afraid to speak up; share your narrative and express your needs effectively to your health team. Be prepared: ask questions \u2013 bring a list \u2013 and take notes. Don\u2019 be afraid to ask a trusted friend or loved one to accompany you.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\" hover_enabled=\"0\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\"]4. Insist on comprehensive, compassionate and continuous care from your providers.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]Learn the office policies of each and their protocols for emergencies. Seek a second \u2013 or third, or fourth \u2013 opinion, or even change practices if necessary. Endometriosis is a multidisciplinary disease, so you may very well also benefit from the expertise of other practitioners (PT, nutritionists, etc.) apart from your managing provider; don\u2019t hesitate to seek out such collaborative care and explore all the options available. Know your rights regarding insurance, health laws, workplace protections and other bureaucratic aspects of healthcare, and keep copies of all your medical records.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"0px||||false|false\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]5. Raise awareness.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]By raising local awareness (or beyond), you are helping to elevate the disease to a priority public platform. Endometriosis continues to be dismissed by some physicians, caregivers, the media and public at large as simply \u2018painful periods.\u2019 This invalidation sustains the ongoing 10-12 year delay in diagnosis and leaves many suffering in silence. Help correct persistent myths and misinformation and insist on timely diagnosis, effective intervention, increased research and better support for yourself \u2013 and all individuals with endometriosis.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]You are not your illness: endometriosis does not define us or in any way lessen our worth. Step back from our culture of \u2018labels\u2019 and know that it is entirely possible to manage the disease effectively \u2013 on your terms, in your own way, in a manner you choose best for your life.\n\nAnd finally, don\u2019t give up: we have heard that \u2018there is no hope and no help\u2019 for this disease so many times that we might actually start to believe it. To the contrary \u2013 there is hope, there is help, and you are worth it. You are your own best advocate in your journey with endometriosis. Through knowledge, empowerment and collaboration with those who understand, it IS possible to live well in spite of the disease.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]\n\nHeather Guidone is the Program Director at<em> <a href=\"http:\/\/centerforendo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Center for Endometriosis Care<\/a><\/em> &amp; Member of the Executive Board at <em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.endocenter.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Endometriosis Research Center<\/a><\/em>\n\nHey Endo Sisters and supporters! When you shop Be Prepared Period, you can feel good knowing you\u2019re supporting a business that supports Endometriosis research. Shop using the link below, and we\u2019ll donate 5% of proceeds to the Endometriosis Research Center. This offer applies all year round \u2013 so you can give back while you order your monthly supplies.\n\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_margin=\"0px||||false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px||||false|false\"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Endo_Fundraising_Donation_CTA.jpg\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/\" url_new_window=\"on\" use_overlay=\"on\" overlay_icon_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0)\" hover_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.4)\" align=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\" text_font=\"||on||||||\"]Psst! Think you might have Endometriosis? Our free guide helps to separate fact from fiction. Click below to download it![\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Endometriosis-Guide-CTA.jpg\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/endometriosis-guide\/\" url_new_window=\"on\" use_overlay=\"on\" overlay_icon_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0)\" hover_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.4)\" align=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"3.25\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" text_font=\"|800||||||#ffffff|\" text_text_color=\"#ffffff\" text_line_height=\"1.8em\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" custom_padding=\"|||10px|false|false\" border_width_all=\"9px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\" text_text_align=\"center\"] <span style=\"font-size: large;\">RELATED RESOURCES<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=\"QUIZ: ARE YOU A PERIOD PRO?\" url=\"https:\/\/bepreparedperiod.outgrow.us\/are-you-a-period-pro\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ARE-YOU-A-PERIOD-PRO-QUIZ.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\"]Whether you\u2019ve just gotten your period, or you\u2019ve been menstruating for a while, there\u2019s a lot to learn about your body. Take the quiz to find out how much you know about Aunt Flow.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"PERIOD 2GO KITS\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/period-kits\/period-kit-to-go\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/period-kit.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\" saved_tabs=\"all\"]You can't always plan for your period, but you can always be prepared for its surprise arrival. Make sure you're ready for when you spot the signs with our super cute and discreet 2GO Kits![\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"TIPS FOR PARENTS &amp; GIRLS SERIES\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/puberty-and-menstrual-tips-for-parents-and-girls-series\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/TIPS-FOR-PARENTS-GIRLS-SERIES.jpg\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\" global_module=\"9626\" saved_tabs=\"all\"]\n\nBPP\u2019s weekly email series will provide you with the tools you need to confidently prepare for the time ahead.\n\n[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"BETTER YOUR PERIOD ACTION GUIDE\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/better-your-period-action-guide\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/BYP-Action-Guide.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\"]This FREE action guide not only shares the benefits of tracking your cycle, but provides a weekly checklist on how to optimize each phase of your cycle.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"MENSTRUAL SELF CARE GUIDE\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/menstrual-self-care-guide\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/menstrual-self-care-guide.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\" saved_tabs=\"all\"]With a self-care practice, you'll find opportunities to slow down, recharge, and take care of your body.\nWe're all about finding ways to go with the flow to add a little love to your time of the month.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"MENSTRUAL CUP 101\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/menstrual-cup-101\/\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/menstrual-cup-101.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\" saved_tabs=\"all\"]Menstrual cups have a long list of benefits that include: 12 hour protection, holds more than a super tampon, safer, better for the environment and the cost $avings!! Learn more![\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=\"HORMONE BALANCING TEA FOR CRAMPS &amp; HOT FLASHES\" url=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/other-products\/cramp-tea\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/HORMONE-BALANCING-TEA-FOR-CRAMPS-AND-HOT-FLASHES.jpg\" _builder_version=\"3.15\" header_text_color=\"#ec2288\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_layout=\"dark\" custom_margin=\"0px||0px|\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" border_width_all=\"20px\" border_color_all=\"#404040\"]Herbal tea, an all-natural, safe and effective way of reducing or eliminating menstrual symptoms that plague women on a regular basis.[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb url=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/cgi-bin\/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&amp;hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&amp;source=url\" url_new_window=\"on\" image=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Donate-to-PeriodTalk-blog-version.png\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" background_color=\"#404040\" background_enable_image=\"off\" custom_margin=\"||0px||false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px||false|false\" link_option_url=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/cgi-bin\/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&amp;hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&amp;source=url\"][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_slider _builder_version=\"3.16\" custom_button=\"on\" button_text_color=\"#75c043\" button_bg_color=\"#ffffff\" button_border_width=\"0px\" button_border_color=\"#ffffff\" button_border_radius=\"0px\" custom_margin=\"|||\" custom_margin_tablet=\"\" custom_margin_phone=\"\" custom_margin_last_edited=\"on|desktop\" custom_padding=\"15px||15px|\" button_border_color_hover=\"rgba(0,0,0,0)\" button_border_radius_hover=\"0px\" button_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_color__hover_enabled=\"on\" button_border_color__hover=\"rgba(0,0,0,0)\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"on\" button_border_radius__hover=\"0px\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Explore More Period Tips &amp; Articles\" button_text=\"Click Here\" button_link=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/period-tips-to-ease-discomfort\/\" use_bg_overlay=\"off\" use_text_overlay=\"off\" _builder_version=\"3.16\" background_color=\"#ec2288\" button_on_hover=\"on\" button_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_section]","_et_gb_content_width":"","_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[143],"tags":[1134,1135,1136,1137,1138,1139,1140,1141,1142,1143,1144,1145,1146],"class_list":["post-7846","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-endometriosis-2","tag-advocate-health-you","tag-endometriosis-delay-in-diagnosis","tag-endometriosis-diagnosis-and-treatment","tag-endometriosis-diagnosis-methods","tag-endometriosis-diagnosis-test","tag-endometriosis-diagnosis-time","tag-endometriosis-differential-diagnosis","tag-endometriosis-how-to-diagnosis","tag-endometriosis-missed-diagnosis","tag-endometriosis-self-diagnosis","tag-endometriosis-symptoms-diagnosis","tag-health-advocate-for-individuals","tag-health-advocate-interview-questions"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Be Prepared. Period\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"admin\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"admin\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8\"},\"headline\":\"How to be Your Own Health Advocate When You Suspect Endometriosis\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\"},\"wordCount\":2858,\"commentCount\":0,\"keywords\":[\"Advocate Health You\",\"Endometriosis Delay In Diagnosis\",\"Endometriosis Diagnosis And Treatment\",\"Endometriosis Diagnosis Methods\",\"Endometriosis Diagnosis Test\",\"Endometriosis Diagnosis Time\",\"Endometriosis Differential Diagnosis\",\"Endometriosis How To Diagnosis\",\"Endometriosis Missed Diagnosis\",\"Endometriosis Self Diagnosis\",\"Endometriosis Symptoms Diagnosis\",\"Health Advocate For Individuals\",\"Health Advocate Interview Questions\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Endometriosis\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\",\"name\":\"How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8\"},\"description\":\"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"How to be Your Own Health Advocate When You Suspect Endometriosis\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Be Prepared. Period\",\"description\":\"Helping women and girls - go with the flo!\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8\",\"name\":\"admin\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/fb9890324cff4019c6488ff50372c53508638f01468529db0c58b1a60ce64f1e?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/fb9890324cff4019c6488ff50372c53508638f01468529db0c58b1a60ce64f1e?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"admin\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/author\/admin-2\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period","description":"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period","og_description":"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/","og_site_name":"Be Prepared. Period","article_published_time":"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00","article_modified_time":"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00","author":"admin","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"admin","Est. reading time":"14 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/"},"author":{"name":"admin","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8"},"headline":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate When You Suspect Endometriosis","datePublished":"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00","dateModified":"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/"},"wordCount":2858,"commentCount":0,"keywords":["Advocate Health You","Endometriosis Delay In Diagnosis","Endometriosis Diagnosis And Treatment","Endometriosis Diagnosis Methods","Endometriosis Diagnosis Test","Endometriosis Diagnosis Time","Endometriosis Differential Diagnosis","Endometriosis How To Diagnosis","Endometriosis Missed Diagnosis","Endometriosis Self Diagnosis","Endometriosis Symptoms Diagnosis","Health Advocate For Individuals","Health Advocate Interview Questions"],"articleSection":["Endometriosis"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/","url":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/","name":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate | Be Prepared Period","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2018-03-14T18:35:33+00:00","dateModified":"2021-08-18T02:57:33+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8"},"description":"Do you suspect Endometriosis? Here are important tips to keep in mind as you address endometriosis concerns. Learn more here.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/how-to-be-your-own-health-advocate-when-you-suspect-endometriosis\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"How to be Your Own Health Advocate When You Suspect Endometriosis"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/","name":"Be Prepared. Period","description":"Helping women and girls - go with the flo!","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8e23b3a5d4360e06f8268d84404c45d8","name":"admin","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/fb9890324cff4019c6488ff50372c53508638f01468529db0c58b1a60ce64f1e?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/fb9890324cff4019c6488ff50372c53508638f01468529db0c58b1a60ce64f1e?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"admin"},"url":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/author\/admin-2\/"}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/paHzrx-22y","jetpack-related-posts":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7846","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7846"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7846\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15616,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7846\/revisions\/15616"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7846"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7846"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7846"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}