Summary
“Health education for girls is so important. We need to normalise conversations about our bodies and our wellbeing so our girls have the right information and can advocate for themselves.”
When Balveen was diagnosed with endometriosis at the age of 20, she had just undergone her second surgery. After enduring years of pain and heavy bleeding that she believed was normal, she was exhausted and suddenly faced with questions about her fertility and career plans.
“At the time, the advice around endometriosis was very much focused on fertility. I was told that if I wanted children, I had better hurry up and have them. I don’t think we should underestimate the kind of toll that statement has on both your physical and emotional wellbeing.”
Living with a health condition where conversations are primarily dominated by concerns about reproductive health and contraception, Balveen understands it can be hard for young women to feel heard when they approach their healthcare practitioner.
“When we talk about endometriosis as purely a sexual or reproductive health issue, not only does this create stigma and barriers to accessing information, it also excludes many women and young girls from their right to treatment and support,” Balveen said.
“Endometriosis is a gynaecological issue and it’s important we treat it that way.
“Research shows that diagnosis still takes an average of 7 years, and that’s not surprising when there is still a prevailing belief that the condition only merits attention if it is impacting on fertility.”
In Balveen’s own experience, it wasn’t until she was older and started doing more of her own research that she knew it was time to seek help.
“My mother also had endometriosis but our physical symptoms presented differently and there were still cultural and social norms about what we could and couldn’t discuss, so it was up to me to advocate for myself,” Balveen said.
“Endometriosis is a gynaecological issue and it’s important we treat it that way. I was fortunate in that my family history meant I was referred to a specialist right away, but I know others are not so lucky.”
Now a mother of 3 and an Ambassador for Endometriosis Australia, Balveen assisted in establishing the organisation’s presence in Queensland. She is passionate about helping women and girls access information about their physical symptoms, their bodies and how to advocate for their wellbeing.
“Pain and discomfort are not just a part of life for women. Providing girls with safe spaces and advice around what is healthy, what is normal, and how to ask the right questions is so empowering. Education is our first step.
“Our girls need unbiased information because it’s not always socially or culturally acceptable to talk about our bodies. When we speak openly, candidly and provide factual information, we can equip women and girls with the information they need to seek support and take agency of their own health.”