Anna Fischer shares endometriosis story

Anna Fischer found herself curled up in agony every month — but for years, doctors dismissed her symptoms.

Anna Fischer has shared her struggle with endometriosis. Picture: Supplied

My journey with endometriosis began at age 11 with my first period.

What should have been a natural part of growing up soon turned into years of excruciating pain, nausea, fainting, and endless battles with an unknown cause.

Each month, I found myself curled up in agony, unable to articulate what I was experiencing. I later learned that these episodes were what’s commonly referred to as endometriosis flares.

For years, doctors dismissed my symptoms.

When I first suggested endometriosis to my GP after researching my symptoms, I was told I was “too young” and that it was just “normal period pain”.

Being dismissed for so long eroded my confidence, leaving me feeling anxious and isolated. By university, my life had completely changed — I was constantly fatigued, swollen, and paranoid about when the pain would strike again.

My attendance suffered, and despite multiple hospital visits, I was left with no answers.

My mental health hit an all-time low, and I feared that this would be my reality indefinitely. Finally, I pushed for a referral to an endometriosis specialist, convinced that something deeper was wrong.

Anna Fischer. Picture: Supplied

That’s when I met the first doctor who truly listened.

Within a week, I was booked for my first laparoscopy.

I remember waking up from surgery, desperate to know if they had found anything.

When I heard the words “Yes, but don’t worry,” I burst into tears — tears of relief and validation after nearly nine years of struggle.

Getting a diagnosis was a turning point, but it didn’t mean the battle was over.

Endometriosis has no cure, so I had to learn how to manage it.

With the help of my GP, specialists, a pelvic health physio and dietitians, I began regaining control.

Slowly, I returned to the activities I loved — playing hockey, going to the gym, and spending time with friends.

Although I wasn’t at the level I once was, I was proud of every step forward.

Support has been everything on this journey.

Anna Fischer has shared her struggle with endometriosis. Picture: Supplied

My mum and brother were my anchors, sacrificing so much to ensure I never felt alone.

My partner, who I met in 2021, has been my rock — educating himself and even his footy team about endometriosis.

Moving to Bunbury, I found even more support through my extended family.

In 2021, I graduated with a degree in primary health and physical education and began navigating the workforce while managing endometriosis.

It was a challenge, but I was fortunate to have understanding employers and inspiring colleagues.

Now, I’m committed to helping others navigate their own journeys with endometriosis.

While there are more good days than bad now, it’s still a tricky path, and I know how vital it is to get answers sooner.

Anna Fischer, 26, lives in Western Australia, and works for Matilda, an online endometriosis surgery support app. She hopes an app like Matilda will help ensure no one has to experience what she went through.

Originally published as Anna Fischer shares endometriosis story