In this Draw My Life video, Ellie Colton shares her powerful journey living with endometriosis. From years of being dismissed by doctors to enduring debilitating pain that was constantly downplayed, her story highlights the ongoing struggle many women face to be believed in the healthcare system. Through raw honesty and powerful visuals, Ellie sheds light on the reality of a condition that’s too often ignored and the strength it takes to fight for your own diagnosis.

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The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown. However, possibilities include retrograde menstruation (menstrual blood flowing backwards into the pelvis), genetic susceptibility, and immune system failure. The symptoms are extremely diverse, ranging from severe period pain, persistent pelvic discomfort, and painful intercourse to heavy bleeding, exhaustion, fertility troubles, bowel motions, and urine. Despite its widespread incidence and profound impact on quality of life, diagnosis remains a major difficulty. In the UK, it takes an alarming average of 8 years and 10 months from the onset of symptoms to acquire a clear diagnosis, a delay that is sometimes exacerbated by symptoms being neglected or misdiagnosed for other disorders, such as IBS. This extended diagnostic path reveals a crucial gap in women’s healthcare and emphasises the urgent need for increased public and medical professionals’ knowledge and comprehension.