Carys Thurlby spent years managing severe pain from endometriosis, a condition that left her exhausted and unable to exercise. After undergoing a hysterectomy, she lost 10 stone in 18 months and regained her energy. The surgery provided lasting relief from symptoms that had affected her daily life since her teenage years.
Decades of Undiagnosed Pain
Thurlby, from Worcester, believes she has had endometriosis since she started her periods as a teenager. She recalls sitting for her GCSE exams while chewing on paracetamol to cope with pain that spread through her pelvis and legs. At the time, she did not realize that such intense monthly pain was not normal for women.
She was officially diagnosed at age 19 after a laparoscopy performed during an episode of excruciating pain. It was the first time she had heard of the condition. Like many women, she spent years living with symptoms that impacted her work, education, and relationships. There is currently no cure for endometriosis, which can affect multiple parts of the body.
Over the years, Thurlby underwent several operations, but the effects were only temporary. Her ovaries were eventually removed after being damaged by the disease, followed by a hysterectomy. Symptoms of the condition often include heavy periods, severe period pain, and discomfort in the stomach, lower back, or pelvic area.
Life After Surgery
Chronic pain and fatigue had previously affected every aspect of Thurlby’s life as she balanced raising her children with her career. She often relied on sugar for quick bursts of energy just to get through the day. The idea of exercising or even taking a gentle walk to the shops was not possible. She noted that there was no room in her life to look after her wellness.
After the surgery, her health improved significantly. The weight began to come off, and she gained confidence. She started exercising and discovered a passion for running. Eighteen months ago, she could not run for longer than a minute. Since then, she has completed the Worcester Half Marathon and is now training for next year’s London Marathon.
Thurlby described the difference as a real shock. She said it was surprising to understand that normal people function without accommodating pain and fatigue into their everyday lives. Her experience is shared by Vicki Shattock from Belbroughton, who wrote a book about her struggle to have health concerns taken seriously. Shattock urged women experiencing persistent pain to trust their instincts and not let others dismiss their symptoms.
Source: BBC
