Endometriosis is a common condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Yet, it’s often shrouded in mystery, leaving many feeling confused and frustrated. If you’re experiencing unusual symptoms or suspect you might have endometriosis, understanding the condition is the first step towards taking control of your health.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, or other pelvic tissues. During your menstrual cycle, this misplaced tissue responds similarly to the uterine lining, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, unlike the uterine lining, this displaced tissue has no way to leave the body, leading to inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation.

Symptoms of Endometriosis:

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often worsening during your period. You might experience:

• Painful periods
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Pain between periods (including ovulation)
• Pain in the lower back or abdomen
• Fatigue
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Understanding Your Cycle Can Be Empowering

While a doctor’s diagnosis is crucial, tracking your cycle can be a powerful tool in understanding your body and managing endometriosis. Here’s where Glow comes in. Glow is a comprehensive women’s health app that allows you to track your period, symptoms, moods, and more. With Glow, you can:

• Identify patterns: Logging your symptoms in Glow can help you identify patterns between your cycle and pain flares. This information can be invaluable when discussing treatment options with your doctor.
• Predict your period: Knowing when to expect your period can help you manage pain. Glow’s period prediction feature uses your logged data to provide a personalized forecast.
• Connect with a supportive community: Glow’s online community allows you to connect with other women experiencing similar challenges. Sharing experiences and offering support can be incredibly empowering.

Taking Control: Treatment Options for Endometriosis

While there’s no cure for endometriosis, there are effective treatment options available. Unfortunately, endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose, so getting a clear picture of your condition is essential. Here’s where Evvy can be a gamechanger.

Evvy offers an at-home microbiome test specifically designed to assess the vaginal microbiome for signs of endometriosis. This innovative test empowers you to take an active role in your healthcare journey. By understanding your unique vaginal microbiome, you and your doctor can explore personalized treatment options to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Remember, you’re not alone. Endometriosis may pose challenges, but with Glow to track your cycle and Evvy to gain insights into your vaginal microbiome, you have the tools and information to navigate your health journey with confidence.

Take charge of your health today. Download Glow and explore Evvy‘s at-home test.