This Easter break, I had quite the fun weekend planned. Then the universe gifted me with an endometriosis flare-up involving heavy bleeding, an interestingly painful party in my uterus, and everyone’s favorite: on-and-off nausea. After two days of being mostly horizontal and looking like the Junk Lady in “Labyrinth,” I am officially recovering. 

Even after a flare-up has dissipated, there’s delusion, fatigue, and leftover pain. So, I’ve developed some coping mechanisms that help me feel human again.

With great pajamas, comes great sleep

Spells of severe pain usually lead to exhaustion, so I try to get as much rest as I can. I hit the sack early and stop using smartphones and other stimulating screens an hour before bedtime. Insomnia is quite common during periods, thanks to body temperature changes and the main event: bad cramps. Taking short naps during the day becomes useful, when possible.

The room may be spinning, but we’re still standing

Feeling sluggish after flare-ups is quite common. If you’re anything like me, big blood loss will lead to dizzy spells and fatigue. My general practitioner recommended I take an iron supplement, and I found one with floral extracts and vitamins. Taken with my food, it has boosted my energy levels immensely.

I try not to get hung up on my inability to keep my eyes wide open when speaking to others. If there’s no energy to give to anyone, it means I need to lie low a few more days before attempting anything social, and that’s OK.

Comfortable clothes are for winners

Of course, I am not suggesting turning up to the next work meeting in yoga pants. However, if your wardrobe is made up of business attire, looser fits are preferable. The infamous endometriosis belly loves to stick around for a while after flare-ups. Never underestimate the comforting effect of a soft sweater. A nice one can look as smart as any slim-fit shirt.

While it helps to keep note of your symptoms on a calendar or an app, flare-ups can be unpredictable. My most recent one took me by surprise after some calm post-surgery months. My body may still be hurting and my confidence a tad shaken, but I am definitively on the mend. 

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Note: Endometriosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Endometriosis News or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to endometriosis.