{"id":7912,"date":"2018-03-27T11:55:42","date_gmt":"2018-03-27T18:55:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/endometriosis-support-what-are-some-of-the-ways-that-youve-felt-supported-by-friends-family\/"},"modified":"2021-08-18T02:46:49","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T02:46:49","slug":"misunderstood-and-unsupported-with-endometriosis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bepreparedperiod.com\/blog\/misunderstood-and-unsupported-with-endometriosis\/","title":{"rendered":"Misunderstood and Unsupported with Endometriosis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n[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\/Endometriosis-ways-youve-felt-misunderstood-or-unsupported.jpg” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.0.11″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”||||false|false”]Last week, we talked about all of the ways that our network of endo warriors have felt supported or loved during their battle with the disorder. Today, we\u2019re tackling the opposite question: what are some ways that you\u2019ve felt misunderstood or unsupported? Often times, even with the best of intentions, support systems can miss the mark when it comes to helping those in need. As a friend and supporter of those with endo, it\u2019s important to know some of the things to avoid when caring for your loved one.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]Today, we\u2019re sharing a continuation of our series on supporting women with endometriosis<\/a>. For Endometriosis Awareness Month, we reached out to our network of endo sisters for their input. Who better to lend their expert advice on endo support than women and girls that are currently battling it? Read on for their input, and check back soon for our final post in this enlightening series![\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”blog-heading-style1″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″]What are some of the ways that you\u2019ve felt a bit misunderstood or unsupported during your endo journey?[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]As we collected responses to this important question, many of the women shared thoughts that fell into two categories: being misunderstood by their medical team, and being misunderstood by a loved one or family member. We\u2019ve broken down their responses into those two categories below![\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”blog-heading-style2″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″]Doctors & Medical Providers:[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”15px||||false|false”]\"\"\u201cMy story is almost textbook. As a young girl, I loved all things medical and scientific. Having read about endometriosis is a family medical encyclopedia at the age of 14 I realised that my symptoms around my period were not normal, and in fact could well be endometriosis. 2 years into menstruation I already knew that my bleeding and pain were completely out of sync with all my classmates. Having approached numerous primary care doctors with my theory I was dismissed time and time again. I was \u201ctoo young\u201d to have endometriosis, I was \u201cattention seeking\u201d, I was \u201clooking for days off school\u201d. It was only when I was training as a medical scientist that I had the funds to ask for a referral to a gynaecologist privately. The doctor wrote on the referral letter that she felt it was not appropriate as there was nothing wrong with me. Countless visits to primary doctors and countless changes to different doctors all were met with the same response \u2013 that I was too young to have endometriosis. It was a disease of 30-something year old women trying to conceive. Certainly not in a teen who had read too much. Thankfully, I was listened to and diagnosed at that referral. In the 20 years since I have met with a large number of doctors and each and every time there is an opportunity to educate and update them about the condition. There have been many appointments where I have left frustrated and upset. It is heartbreaking to see old myths being offered as \u201ctreatments\u201d or options. Young women are still being offered pregnancy and castration to this day. This, for me, is the ultimate misunderstanding and unsupportive part of endometriosis \u2013 the lack of education amongst the medical (and wider) community. I have seen progress in recent years, but we have a long way to go\u201d \u2013 Kathleen King[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cI feel misunderstood in two ways. Regular society, those who maybe I am the only person with endometriosis they know, feels like I had surgery it\u2019s all fixed. You just find a person who takes insurance and its no big deal. But we know that endometriosis education even within the OBGYN speciality is lacking and a true excision specialist is hard to find. We also know that the reimbursement codes for endometriosis surgery do not reflect the skill and time it takes to dissect and excise endometriosis at its root. So, a qualified endometriosis specialist likely will be out of network. I also feel very unsupported within the pelvic pain community. Because endometriosis is multifaceted, it takes more than one thing to be well. I know and understand this as a pelvic physical therapist. I know and understand surgery, good surgery, plays a huge role in endometriosis. But I have often felt like an outcast and the black sheep because I preach that physical therapy and exercise matter so very much when it comes to pelvic pain. Endometriosis will trigger muscle spasms and issues with the fascia that women need physical therapy to help with. Repeatedly doctors wanted to due a hysterectomy for the pain. That doesn\u2019t treat the cause of the pain and hysterectomy, while it has a role in treating adenomyosis and uterine disorders, it does not treat endometriosis. My pain is in the most private of areas, so please do not minimize me or humiliate me by trying to force something on me that does not treat the source of the pain and that I do not want.\u201d -Dr. Sallie Sarrel[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”15px||||false|false”]\u201cThe example that stands out to me the most right now is not just related to family and friends, but also medical providers. Endometriosis may cause infertility. Knowing this, one would think people would be sensitive when asking questions about when\/if I plan to conceive. However, I am continuously asked (because of my age maybe) when (not if) I am planning to conceive. When I tell people that I do not plan to carry a child, I am met with judgement. First, I know my body and all that she\u2019s been through. I have experienced life-threatening blood clots multiple times. I have been on synthetic hormones (oral and injected) for years at a time. I have no desire to put my body through these types of treatments again. Second, No one should judge me for these choices. It\u2019s hurtful and unsupportive. I get this judgement from practitioners and loved ones. \u201cYou don\u2019t know what you want yet, you\u2019re still young\u201d. I\u2019m thirty. I know what I want.\u201d -Dr. Arielle Denise Dance[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”10px||10px||false|false”]\u201cI have felt misunderstood when I am in the emergency room suffering with an excruciating amount of pain and the doctors don\u2019t understand why the pain medicine isn\u2019t working. I have also felt unsupported and misunderstood at times with school and certain teachers for missing class when I can\u2019t get out of bed or not being able to do the work because I am too sick.\u201d \u2013 Kate Schneider[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”blog-heading-style2″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″]Loved Ones:[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cThroughout the journey to diagnosis I was told that it was \u201call in my head\u201d, that the symptoms were actually a physical manifestation of depression or anxiety, was accused of being addicted to drugs by my parents at one point, and multiple other things. When I was prescribed narcotics for pain control, many people worried I would become addicted and were more concerned with that than the side effects of the drugs and the fact that I continued to have pain while taking them.\u201d \u2013 Kate Priest[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cTheir confusion over pain flares that were not associated with my period.I was almost fired from a job because I called into work with short notice too frequently from my pain flares.\u201d \u2013 Dr. Allegra Hart[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”35px||||false|false”]\"\"\u201cSigh. Many ways, unfortunately. \u201cWas I really in THAT much pain?\u201d \u201cWhy did I need to see an excision specialist?\u201d \u201cIt\u2019s only a period problem.\u201d \u201cMy aunt\u2019s cousin\u2019s neighbor\u2019s sister\u2019s friend\u2019s mom had that \u2013 they (insert ridiculous statement here) and it cured them.\u201d \u201cJust have a baby \u2013 it cures it\u201d (MYTH!)\u201d \u2013 Rebecca L Gibson[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201c\u201cUntil someone is in my shoes it is hard to understand what I go through. I constantly hear \u201cgo to school\u201d and \u201csuck it up and take some Advil\u201d and \u201cwe all have things we have to do even when we don\u2019t feel good.\u201d This constantly makes my self esteem drop and anxiety heighten, things I do not need on top of pain!\u201d \u2013 Michaela, age 15[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"Casey-Berna-Endometriosis-Awareness-II-e1521148449778\"\u201cI think family and friends can become overwhelmed by endometriosis over time. As patients we experience feelings of anxiety and powerlessness over having endometriosis. I think those close to us share these same feelings as they see us suffer. Unfortunately, instead of identifying feeling anxious or helpless, the defense mechanisms of our loved ones sometimes kick in and denial, dismissal, anger, or guilt can be projected onto the patient who is already suffering. Phrases like, \u201cAren\u2019t you better yet?\u201d or \u201cYour cousin Mary got pregnant back in the 80\u2019s and it cured her endometriosis!\u201d or \u201cDoesn\u2019t everyone have painful periods?\u201d can be devastating for a patient to hear.\u201d -Casey Berna[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cParticularly when it\u2019s so bad that I\u2019ve had to call off from work \u2013 what boss understands taking a day off because of menstrual cramps? Not many. Or when I\u2019ve canceled plans with family or friends. There\u2019s stigma attached \u2013 that you\u2019re just a wuss, a wimp, whining because of something that half of the world\u2019s population goes through once a month. Endo is different.\u201d \u2013 Lydia Bowers[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cSome ways that I\u2019ve felt misunderstood are when family and friends insinuate that endo is not that bad at Stage I because it does not do as much damage as it does in Stages III to IV. Endo is experienced differently by everyone, no matter the stage they suffer from. Therefore, it is instrumental that family and friends understand that a stage I endo warrior may very well struggle just as much as a stage IV warrior.\u201d -Julia Sweeney[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]\"\"\u201cI surrounded myself with supportive friends from a young age, and this has made all the difference in my being able to live with this illness. At the peak of my ill health, before excision, I remember having had to cancel plans with a newly made friend. Instantly I went from getting texts everyday to my phone calls not being answered. I learned quickly that this was not someone who deserved to be part of my tribe. If she wasn\u2019t interested in my friendship when I was at my worst, she definitely wouldn\u2019t get to have me at my best.\u201d \u2013 Melissa Tison[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”10px||||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″]The research on endometriosis is still developing, and that can make fully understanding the disease difficult. Unless they ask for your advice or medical guidance, just knowing that you support them is the best way to care for them. A simple text message, stopping by to see them when they\u2019re not feeling well, or bringing them tea can make all the difference in the world. When in doubt, focus on supporting your loved one instead of trying to fix their problem \u2013 you never know just how much your support could mean.\n\nTara and the BPP team[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″]Hey 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=”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\/idevaffiliate\/idevaffiliate.php?id=148″ 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=”4.4.1″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ text_font=”||on||||||” custom_padding=”15px||15px||false|false”]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″][\/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”]RELATED RESOURCES[\/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 & 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”]

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=”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 & 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&hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&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&hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&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 & 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]\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Last week, we talked about all of the ways that our network of endo warriors have felt supported or loved during their battle with the disorder. Today, we\u2019re tackling the opposite question: what are some ways that you\u2019ve felt misunderstood or unsupported? Often times, even with the best of intentions, support systems can miss the […]<\/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\/Endometriosis-ways-youve-felt-misunderstood-or-unsupported.jpg\" align=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\"]Last week, we talked about all of the ways that our network of endo warriors have felt supported or loved during their battle with the disorder. Today, we\u2019re tackling the opposite question: what are some ways that you\u2019ve felt misunderstood or unsupported? Often times, even with the best of intentions, support systems can miss the mark when it comes to helping those in need. As a friend and supporter of those with endo, it\u2019s important to know some of the things to avoid when caring for your loved one.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n\nToday, we\u2019re sharing a continuation of our series on supporting women with endometriosis<\/a>. For Endometriosis Awareness Month, we reached out to our network of endo sisters for their input. Who better to lend their expert advice on endo support than women and girls that are currently battling it? Read on for their input, and check back soon for our final post in this enlightening series!\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=\"blog-heading-style1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]What are some of the ways that you\u2019ve felt a bit misunderstood or unsupported during your endo journey?[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]As we collected responses to this important question, many of the women shared thoughts that fell into two categories: being misunderstood by their medical team, and being misunderstood by a loved one or family member. We\u2019ve broken down their responses into those two categories below![\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=\"blog-heading-style2\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]Doctors & Medical Providers:[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"15px||||false|false\"]\"\"\u201cMy story is almost textbook. As a young girl, I loved all things medical and scientific. Having read about endometriosis is a family medical encyclopedia at the age of 14 I realised that my symptoms around my period were not normal, and in fact could well be endometriosis. 2 years into menstruation I already knew that my bleeding and pain were completely out of sync with all my classmates. Having approached numerous primary care doctors with my theory I was dismissed time and time again. I was \u201ctoo young\u201d to have endometriosis, I was \u201cattention seeking\u201d, I was \u201clooking for days off school\u201d. It was only when I was training as a medical scientist that I had the funds to ask for a referral to a gynaecologist privately. The doctor wrote on the referral letter that she felt it was not appropriate as there was nothing wrong with me. Countless visits to primary doctors and countless changes to different doctors all were met with the same response \u2013 that I was too young to have endometriosis. It was a disease of 30-something year old women trying to conceive. Certainly not in a teen who had read too much. Thankfully, I was listened to and diagnosed at that referral. In the 20 years since I have met with a large number of doctors and each and every time there is an opportunity to educate and update them about the condition. There have been many appointments where I have left frustrated and upset. It is heartbreaking to see old myths being offered as \u201ctreatments\u201d or options. Young women are still being offered pregnancy and castration to this day. This, for me, is the ultimate misunderstanding and unsupportive part of endometriosis \u2013 the lack of education amongst the medical (and wider) community. I have seen progress in recent years, but we have a long way to go\u201d \u2013 Kathleen King[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\"\"\u201cI feel misunderstood in two ways. Regular society, those who maybe I am the only person with endometriosis they know, feels like I had surgery it\u2019s all fixed. You just find a person who takes insurance and its no big deal. But we know that endometriosis education even within the OBGYN speciality is lacking and a true excision specialist is hard to find. We also know that the reimbursement codes for endometriosis surgery do not reflect the skill and time it takes to dissect and excise endometriosis at its root. So, a qualified endometriosis specialist likely will be out of network. I also feel very unsupported within the pelvic pain community. Because endometriosis is multifaceted, it takes more than one thing to be well. I know and understand this as a pelvic physical therapist. I know and understand surgery, good surgery, plays a huge role in endometriosis. But I have often felt like an outcast and the black sheep because I preach that physical therapy and exercise matter so very much when it comes to pelvic pain. Endometriosis will trigger muscle spasms and issues with the fascia that women need physical therapy to help with. Repeatedly doctors wanted to due a hysterectomy for the pain. That doesn\u2019t treat the cause of the pain and hysterectomy, while it has a role in treating adenomyosis and uterine disorders, it does not treat endometriosis. My pain is in the most private of areas, so please do not minimize me or humiliate me by trying to force something on me that does not treat the source of the pain and that I do not want.\u201d -Dr. Sallie Sarrel[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"15px||||false|false\"]\u201cThe example that stands out to me the most right now is not just related to family and friends, but also medical providers. Endometriosis may cause infertility. Knowing this, one would think people would be sensitive when asking questions about when\/if I plan to conceive. However, I am continuously asked (because of my age maybe) when (not if) I am planning to conceive. When I tell people that I do not plan to carry a child, I am met with judgement. First, I know my body and all that she\u2019s been through. I have experienced life-threatening blood clots multiple times. I have been on synthetic hormones (oral and injected) for years at a time. I have no desire to put my body through these types of treatments again. Second, No one should judge me for these choices. It\u2019s hurtful and unsupportive. I get this judgement from practitioners and loved ones. \u201cYou don\u2019t know what you want yet, you\u2019re still young\u201d. I\u2019m thirty. I know what I want.\u201d -Dr. Arielle Denise Dance[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"10px||10px||false|false\"]\u201cI have felt misunderstood when I am in the emergency room suffering with an excruciating amount of pain and the doctors don\u2019t understand why the pain medicine isn\u2019t working. I have also felt unsupported and misunderstood at times with school and certain teachers for missing class when I can\u2019t get out of bed or not being able to do the work because I am too sick.\u201d \u2013 Kate Schneider[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=\"blog-heading-style2\" _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]Loved Ones:[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n\n\"\"\u201cThroughout the journey to diagnosis I was told that it was \u201call in my head\u201d, that the symptoms were actually a physical manifestation of depression or anxiety, was accused of being addicted to drugs by my parents at one point, and multiple other things. When I was prescribed narcotics for pain control, many people worried I would become addicted and were more concerned with that than the side effects of the drugs and the fact that I continued to have pain while taking them.\u201d \u2013 Kate Priest\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\"\"\u201cTheir confusion over pain flares that were not associated with my period.I was almost fired from a job because I called into work with short notice too frequently from my pain flares.\u201d \u2013 Dr. Allegra Hart[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_margin=\"||||false|false\" custom_padding=\"35px||||false|false\"]\n\n\"\"\u201cSigh. Many ways, unfortunately. \u201cWas I really in THAT much pain?\u201d \u201cWhy did I need to see an excision specialist?\u201d \u201cIt\u2019s only a period problem.\u201d \u201cMy aunt\u2019s cousin\u2019s neighbor\u2019s sister\u2019s friend\u2019s mom had that \u2013 they (insert ridiculous statement here) and it cured them.\u201d \u201cJust have a baby \u2013 it cures it\u201d (MYTH!)\u201d \u2013 Rebecca L Gibson\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\"\"\u201c\u201cUntil someone is in my shoes it is hard to understand what I go through. I constantly hear \u201cgo to school\u201d and \u201csuck it up and take some Advil\u201d and \u201cwe all have things we have to do even when we don\u2019t feel good.\u201d This constantly makes my self esteem drop and anxiety heighten, things I do not need on top of pain!\u201d \u2013 Michaela, age 15[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\"Casey-Berna-Endometriosis-Awareness-II-e1521148449778\"\u201cI think family and friends can become overwhelmed by endometriosis over time. As patients we experience feelings of anxiety and powerlessness over having endometriosis. I think those close to us share these same feelings as they see us suffer. Unfortunately, instead of identifying feeling anxious or helpless, the defense mechanisms of our loved ones sometimes kick in and denial, dismissal, anger, or guilt can be projected onto the patient who is already suffering. Phrases like, \u201cAren\u2019t you better yet?\u201d or \u201cYour cousin Mary got pregnant back in the 80\u2019s and it cured her endometriosis!\u201d or \u201cDoesn\u2019t everyone have painful periods?\u201d can be devastating for a patient to hear.\u201d -Casey Berna[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\"\"\u201cParticularly when it\u2019s so bad that I\u2019ve had to call off from work \u2013 what boss understands taking a day off because of menstrual cramps? Not many. Or when I\u2019ve canceled plans with family or friends. There\u2019s stigma attached \u2013 that you\u2019re just a wuss, a wimp, whining because of something that half of the world\u2019s population goes through once a month. Endo is different.\u201d \u2013 Lydia Bowers[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n\n\"\"\u201cSome ways that I\u2019ve felt misunderstood are when family and friends insinuate that endo is not that bad at Stage I because it does not do as much damage as it does in Stages III to IV. Endo is experienced differently by everyone, no matter the stage they suffer from. Therefore, it is instrumental that family and friends understand that a stage I endo warrior may very well struggle just as much as a stage IV warrior.\u201d -Julia Sweeney\n\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]\n\n\"\"\u201cI surrounded myself with supportive friends from a young age, and this has made all the difference in my being able to live with this illness. At the peak of my ill health, before excision, I remember having had to cancel plans with a newly made friend. Instantly I went from getting texts everyday to my phone calls not being answered. I learned quickly that this was not someone who deserved to be part of my tribe. If she wasn\u2019t interested in my friendship when I was at my worst, she definitely wouldn\u2019t get to have me at my best.\u201d \u2013 Melissa Tison\n\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" custom_padding=\"10px||||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\"]The research on endometriosis is still developing, and that can make fully understanding the disease difficult. Unless they ask for your advice or medical guidance, just knowing that you support them is the best way to care for them. A simple text message, stopping by to see them when they\u2019re not feeling well, or bringing them tea can make all the difference in the world. When in doubt, focus on supporting your loved one instead of trying to fix their problem \u2013 you never know just how much your support could mean.\n\nTara and the BPP team[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\"]Hey 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=\"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\/idevaffiliate\/idevaffiliate.php?id=148\" 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=\"4.4.1\" hover_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.11\" text_font=\"||on||||||\" custom_padding=\"15px||15px||false|false\"]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\"][\/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\"]RELATED RESOURCES[\/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 & 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 & 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&hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&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&hosted_button_id=JVBU8C4RM9TRJ&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 & 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":"1220","_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":[143,1],"tags":[1147,1148,1149,1150,1151],"class_list":["post-7912","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-endometriosis-2","category-periodtalk","tag-common-questions-about-endometriosis","tag-endometriosis-family-support","tag-family-and-endometriosis","tag-frequently-asked-questions-about-endometriosis","tag-questions-about-endometriosis"],"yoast_head":"\nMisunderstood and Unsupported with Endometriosis - Be Prepared. Period<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What are some of the ways that you\u2019ve felt a bit misunderstood or unsupported during your endometriosis journey? Read different experiences 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\/misunderstood-and-unsupported-with-endometriosis\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Misunderstood and Unsupported with Endometriosis - Be Prepared. Period\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What are some of the ways that you\u2019ve felt a bit misunderstood or unsupported during your endometriosis journey? 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