March is a month that has been globally dedicated to endometriosis for decades. This women's disease is very common, affecting almost every 10th woman, which is why we at Femvie also strive to raise awareness about endometriosis and provide women with tips on how they can improve its course through a healthy lifestyle.
That's why Anet, the founder of Femvie, decided to share her experience with endometriosis and assure other women that they are truly not alone.
In the interview, you will learn about Anet's journey to diagnosis and whether endometriosis is approached differently in the Czech Republic and England, everything she tried on her journey and what helped her the most, and last but not least, how she managed to transform her diagnosis into the Femvie platform and what other news you can expect from us.
What were the first signs of endometriosis you observed in yourself?
Looking back, it was mainly a combination of digestive problems, pain, and cramps in the back, lower abdomen, and ovary areas, which I actively observed and had been bothering me for a long time. There were months when it was manageable, and then there were a few months when I lay on the floor every morning and evening, desperate and in pain.
The hardest part was that for a long time I didn't know what was happening to me or what was causing it. At work, I often suppressed the pain, which led to irritability and fatigue. I was afraid it would affect how people perceived me, especially in a work environment, because sometimes the pain almost made me cry. As a result, I tended to isolate myself or avoid travel and events because I was tired, in a bad mood, sometimes I didn't know what to eat to avoid cramps, and I didn't want to transfer these feelings and limitations to those around me.
What are your experiences with diagnosis? Did you find understanding from doctors?
My diagnostic experiences haven't been entirely positive. I had long perceived menstrual pain and cramps as a part of my life and considered them normal. When I shared the situation with my gynecologist, he examined me and concluded that everything was fine. So, I started to attribute the symptoms more to digestive problems, which led me (after a very long journey) to a diagnosis of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
Unfortunately, endometriosis presents complex diagnostic problems; symptoms vary greatly, and the condition is often misdiagnosed as a bowel or digestive disorder. The most significant finding for me was a study (1) that showed endometriosis was associated with an almost threefold increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome, and that more than 1 in 5 women with endometriosis have irritable bowel syndrome.
In this case, a comprehensive approach to health is very relevant, as it can help identify both problems.
Do you perceive any difference in how endometriosis is approached in England versus in the Czech Republic?
It can't be assessed so generally - many factors play a role.
I would say that in England, many topics are discussed years earlier, and there are many communities and public events that address these topics. Thanks to this openness, I started addressing my health, holistically, much earlier here. In larger companies, it was completely normal to have lectures on meditation, mental health, and women's hormonal issues. Health-related topics are far less taboo (at least from personal experience). Thanks to the environment I was in, I gradually became part of a community of experts focused on women's health, and I received understanding and validation that what I was going through, while common, was not normal. I also gradually gained an overview of everything that could help me. Another advantage is that many studies are conducted in the UK, so access to information is relatively quick. Currently, there are several studies investigating genetic factors, the immune system, endometriosis diagnosis, and treatment with minimal side effects. The Endometriosis UK charity often funds these studies through grants.
"What I'm going through is common, but not normal."
However, the quality of doctors and specialists in the Czech Republic is also very high. It's just not always easy for women to find out where to go, who to see, and how to address a particular hormonal symptom - this is the problem we are trying to solve with the Femvie platform. Thanks to us, women save time searching for conflicting information, and the approach is individual, empathetic, and comprehensive. We strive to provide women with the support and assurance they need during these phases of their lives, and we collaborate with gynecologists and physiotherapists to provide women with the necessary recommendations. We believe that our approach goes hand in hand.
There are many classical and alternative options for better managing the course of endometriosis. What all have you tried on your journey?
On my journey to health, I've tried a lot:
- Chinese medicine (herbs and acupuncture)
- Functional medicine - focused on nutrition and supplementation (herbs and dietary supplements)
- Traditional medicine - (I took contraception for several years)
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Hormonal yoga
- Nervous system regulation through holistic therapy
There are many trends that promise women solutions to their hormonal problems. In many cases, these are short-term patches or even completely unsuitable solutions, as each woman may have a completely different cause or imbalance, and a blanket solution is not entirely appropriate. On the contrary, it can cause further problems that will manifest over time.
Based on our experience (and the experience of the experts we collaborate with), we know what truly works long-term. That's why at Femvie, we've developed a comprehensive approach with key pillars that, in our view, have the greatest impact on women's hormonal health. As part of our education and consultations, we create individualized plans and recommendations that enable women to implement these changes.
Does endometriosis still affect you in your daily life?
Sometimes it does, but I can say that thanks to the information and changes I've incorporated into my life - such as supplementing with Endo Complex, physiotherapy, dietary adjustments, limiting alcohol, and daily work with emotions and the nervous system - my pain and symptoms have significantly improved.
Is there a difference in how you viewed endometriosis before and how you see it today?The main difference is that I've learned to work with it. I'm not the type of person who can function under a strict regime for a long time; I need balance in life. Understanding the impact of certain diets and approaches to life on my symptoms has helped me a lot. Based on that, I know what does and doesn't work for me, and what boundaries I need to set. From time to time (a few times a year), I break my diet, drink alcohol, knowing that I probably won't feel great afterward, but I'm prepared for it. When I don't feel well at these times, I try to approach myself with rationality and understanding. I am my own support.
Before, I felt frustration towards myself and my symptoms - today, I see it as something that helped me (or perhaps even forced me) to really learn to listen to my body, observe my cycle, and notice what does and doesn't work for me, and live a healthier life accordingly. I believe that perhaps something like this had to come into my life for me to set boundaries and prioritize myself and my overall health.
Are there any useful books, podcasts, or documentaries that helped you on your journey and you would recommend?
I would recommend the Femvie e-book on endometriosis to everyone, which contains endometriosis" title="endometriosis">6 steps on how to naturally relieve pain through nutrition. In addition, you will also learn what to do if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis and what treatment options and ways to improve its course are available to you.
I would also recommend the Czech patient organization focused on Endometriosis - Endotalks.
When did the idea for creating the Femvie brand come about?
My entire life, I've been fascinated and interested in topics related to health – mental, emotional, and physical. The realization of the idea – Femvie [women's life] – came after I had gone through a long and very challenging journey with my health and experienced firsthand how much time I could have saved if I had had certain information available, knew how to support my health with suitable products, could consult my situation easily and quickly with someone, and received a clear plan and assurance that I was on the right path.
As my health situation gradually became more pronounced, I decided to be more transparent and started talking about the situation and my feelings with those around me. I gradually discovered that there were many women around me who were also going through something similar and didn't feel sufficiently supported or informed about what was happening in their bodies, how their cycle worked, or why they experienced hormonal fluctuations.
I decided to channel the frustration I felt into creating the Femvie platform, which offers such support to women. Our approach is comprehensive; we approach women with empathy, understanding, and strive to make these essential information accessible to them, enabling them to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Do you have any upcoming plans and news for Femvie that women can look forward to?
Yes, in the near future, we are planning two big new releases that I am incredibly excited about, as we have been working on them for a very long time.
I can reveal that one of them is a product that has been in development for over a year, with extensive testing and recipe adjustments behind it. For all our products, we ensure they are purely natural and functional. Women who want to find their way to self-love and want to relax their bodies during their cycle can look forward to it.
The second new product will allow our comprehensive approach to reach as many women as possible and help them practically and effectively balance their hormones. Women who want to prioritize their health and learn to live in harmony with their hormonal health can look forward to it.
“You cannot heal a body you hate.”
Would you like to say something to women who are going through endometriosis or other hormone-related problems?
Don't let anyone tell you that the symptoms or pain you're experiencing are all in your head. Also, don't allow yourself to put yourself down for what's happening to you. You cannot heal a body you hate. Your symptoms are not your destiny and do not define you. If you don't feel well, contact our experts; we will listen to your situation and support you so that you can best understand and resolve your issues.
For several years, doctors told me that according to tests and ultrasound, everything was fine and the cramps were "in my head," meaning probably stress-related, and I should relax more. The only reason I found out what was happening in my body was because I proactively started to take an interest in my health, seek information, and gradually put it all together. This process doesn't have to be as long and frustrating; our team is here to support you.
Are you going through endometriosis and wondering how you can improve your condition through diet? Or do you just want to learn more about this disease? The Femvie product range now includes the mentioned e-book 6+1 ways to naturally reduce pain with nutrition for endometriosis. Individual and comprehensive support can also be found from our experts.
Do you want to share your story and journey to health with us? Contact us! Write to our email poradna@femvie.com.
Femvie products that can help you
We have selected products related to this topic that can support your health:
- 🌿 Endometriosis Support Complex — a specially formulated supplement for women with endometriosis
- 📖 Guide: Anti-inflammatory diet for endometriosis — 6 + 1 ways to naturally reduce pain through nutrition
- 💊 Magnesium — supports muscle relaxation and cramp relief
- 🩹 Menstrual Patches — natural relief from painful menstruation
- 🎯 Endometriosis Support Pack — a complete set for daily support
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have endometriosis?
Endometriosis manifests as severe painful periods, pain during intercourse, fatigue, and digestive problems. The only way to definitively confirm it is through laparoscopy. If the symptoms interfere with your daily life, consult a gynecologist.
How long does it take to get a diagnosis?
The average time from the first symptoms to a diagnosis of endometriosis in the Czech Republic is 7–10 years. Many women are dismissed for a long time with the idea that painful menstruation is normal.
Can endometriosis be treated naturally?
Endometriosis cannot be completely cured, but symptoms can be naturally alleviated with an anti-inflammatory diet, dietary supplements, exercise, and stress reduction. Natural support does not replace medical care but can significantly improve quality of life.
Are organic menstrual products better for women with endometriosis?
Yes. Conventional tampons and pads may contain pesticides and chemicals that irritate sensitive tissue. Femvie's organic cotton products are certified and free of harmful substances.
