Anjali was just 14 when her mother brought her in. Every period sent her writhing in pain, missing school. Two doctors had brushed it off as “normal cramps.” But something about her curled-up posture, her pale face, and the fear in her mother’s eyes told me this wasn’t just dysmenorrhea.

I ordered a pelvic ultrasound—nothing. But her pain was cyclic, deep, and persistent. I initiated empirical treatment with hormonal suppression, and her symptoms improved dramatically. Laparoscopy a year later, when she was ready, confirmed the diagnosis: extensive endometriosis.

She’s now 22, an advocate for teen menstrual health.

The Lesson Learned

Never dismiss severe period pain in teens as “normal.” Endometriosis doesn’t care about age—listen carefully, and act early.

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