Endometriosis Awareness Month: You’re Not Alone—and You Deserve Real Answers

By Haven Pregnancy, Wellness & Women’s Health

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to bring visibility to a condition that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age—yet often goes undiagnosed for years.

At Haven, we see firsthand how endometriosis impacts not just physical health, but daily life, relationships, fertility, and emotional well-being. If you’ve been told your pain is “normal,” this is your reminder: it’s not—and we take it seriously.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it—commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, or pelvic lining. This tissue responds to hormonal changes, leading to inflammation, scarring, and significant pain.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

• Painful periods (often worsening over time)
• Pelvic pain outside of your cycle
• Pain with intercourse
• Pain with bowel movements or urination (especially during periods)
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Infertility or difficulty conceiving
• Fatigue, bloating, and nausea

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that severe period pain is normal. If your pain is interfering with your daily life, your work, or your relationships, that’s a signal that something deeper may be going on.”

— Dr. Charlene Collier, OB/GYN

Why Endometriosis Is Often Missed

On average, it can take 7–10 years to receive a diagnosis. Many patients are:

• Dismissed or told symptoms are “just bad cramps”
• Started on treatments without a full evaluation
• Managing symptoms quietly without realizing help exists

“Many of our patients come in after years of feeling unheard. Simply validating their experience is often the first step in their healing journey.”

— Kewanza Young, Nurse Practitioner

How We Diagnose Endometriosis

There is no single blood test for endometriosis. Diagnosis may include:

• Detailed history and symptom review
• Pelvic exam
• Ultrasound (to evaluate for cysts or other findings)
• In some cases, referral for laparoscopic surgery, which is the gold standard

At Haven, we focus on clinical suspicion and early intervention, rather than waiting years for confirmation.

Treatment Options: Personalized and Multi-Layered

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment depends on your symptoms, goals, and whether fertility is a priority.

Medical Options

• Hormonal therapy (birth control pills, patches, IUDs)
• Progestin therapy (e.g., norethindrone)
• GnRH analogs in select cases
• Pain management strategies

Lifestyle & Supportive Therapies

• Anti-inflammatory nutrition
• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Stress reduction and sleep optimization

Surgical Care

• Referral to specialized endometriosis surgeons when needed

“We don’t just treat endometriosis—we treat the whole person. Pain, hormones, lifestyle, and emotional health all play a role.”

— Alanda James, Nurse Practitioner

The Power of a Team Approach

Endometriosis care is most effective when it extends beyond a single provider. Depending on your needs, your care team may include:

• OB/GYN
• Pelvic floor physical therapist
• Nutritionist
• Mental health therapist
• Pain specialist
• Endometriosis surgical specialist

At Haven, we help coordinate this care so you’re not navigating it alone.

When Should You Seek Help?

You should consider evaluation if:

• Your period pain is worsening or severe
• You’re missing work, school, or activities due to pain
• Over-the-counter medications aren’t helping
• You have pain outside of your cycle
• You’ve been trying to conceive without success

Our Approach at Haven

We believe in:

• Listening first
• Validating your experience
• Offering evidence-based, personalized care
• Building a long-term plan—not just quick fixes

“Our goal is not just symptom control—it’s helping women get their quality of life back.”

— Dr. Charlene Collier

You Deserve to Be Heard

If you’ve been struggling with pain or symptoms that don’t feel normal, this is your sign to seek care. Endometriosis is real, it’s common, and there are options to help you feel better.

Schedule an Appointment

📍 Haven Pregnancy, Wellness & Women’s Health 302 Highland Park Cove Ridgeland, MS, 39157

📞 601-707-3970

Let’s take the next step—together.