Since 30 years, I have endometriosis, and now, also adenomyosis. These diseases originating from the uterus are very painful and invalidating. But as they are deep in our guts, they are an invisible handicap. In order to show the reality of these debilitating illnesses and how they affect our lives, I started to make digital drawings. The style is voluntarily very raw and rough... to match the horrendous effects of the diseases.
More info: mariesophiegermain.net
The reality of endometriosis : lesions, cysts and a lot of blood.
The pain, always there, preventing you do to anything...
The doctors denial, when they all say for years "it's in your head", "it's normal to have painful periods" or "you're too delicate". Because of this attitude, it takes at least 7 to 10 years to get a proper diagnostic...
The depression... Because endometriosis ruins all your life.
The numerous medications : painkillers, antidepressants, hormones...
The very negative impact on sexuality. With intense pain and often a drop of libido caused by hormonal treatments, impossible to have sex.
The numerous gynecological consultations, always stressing, sometimes humiliating, always painful.
The overwhelming fatigue
The chemical menopause. When it works, it's the only solution to slow down the progression of the disease. But it comes with devastating side effects...
The help of assisted reproductive technologies, most often the only chance to get pregnant.
The sorrow, when you understand you'll never be a mother...
The end of your relationship... because it's too much...
The numerous surgeries you need, first to make the right diagnostic, but also to "clean" the organs, to remove the lesions, and sometimes to remove parts of the intestines, or the uterus, the ovaries...
... but we fight back ! We are #endowarriors.
