This Thanksgiving, let's give thanks for heating pads, cozy blankets, and breaking traditional gender norms.

Endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately 160 million women globally, is a silent adversary that can deeply impact both the physical and emotional realms of a woman's life. Among its distressing symptoms, dyspareunia, or pain during sexual intercourse, stands as a significant challenge.

How can women grappling with endometriosis emphasize self-care amidst the all the festivities, expectations, and caregiving duties that take over the holiday season?

Beyond the physical pain, endometriosis takes a toll on emotional well-being and puts strains on relationships. Madison Wiese and Tara Emmers-Sommer conducted a compelling study that delves into how traditional gender norms shape women's choices regarding their health and the consequences that follow. They analyzed Reddit posts, aiming to uncover the relationship between different script types (self, partner, or relationship) and resulting physical, emotional, and relational health outcomes.

Their findings revealed something noteworthy. Women dealing with endometriosis want to prioritize their health and personal agency. However, the connection between the script type they endorse and the resulting outcomes in terms of physical, emotional, and relational health doesn't show a significant correlation. This implies that women face multiple hurdles while managing their sexual health in the context of endometriosis. These hurdles are higher and more frequent during the holiday season.

For many women with endometriosis, holidays can cause endometriosis flare-ups. Women are often thrust into roles that demand constant cooking, cleaning, and caregiving. Unfortunately, these responsibilities can exacerbate the symptoms of endometriosis, making this season a particularly challenging one. How does one prioritize their health and their sexual relationships?

In the world of traditional sexual script theory, we can see how these caregiver roles can become even more demanding during the holidays. Society often dictates specific gender roles and expectations in relationships. Women are typically cast as caregivers and nurturers, and these roles can add stress when they're trying to prioritize their health. Research has found that endometriosis patients have higher mental health diagnoses such as depression or anxiety that contribute to lower levels of subjective well-being (Rush et al., 2019).

The holiday season brings joy and festivities, but for those grappling with endometriosis, it can also present unique challenges. Here are some tips to ensure self-care remains a priority amid the holiday cheer:

1. Engage in Open Dialogue: 💬

Communication is paramount. Initiate candid discussions with your loved ones about your endometriosis. Share both the physical and emotional aspects of your experience. Seek their understanding and support – they play a vital role in your well-being. It's essential to counteract self-silencing tendencies, where individuals withhold topics that might lead to conflicts, potentially jeopardizing their health.

2. Embrace Teamwork: 🙌

Don't hesitate to enlist assistance during holiday preparations. Delegate tasks and request help – it's a strategic move, not a sign of weakness. By doing so, you're effectively challenging societal norms that may have led to self-silencing in the past.

3. Pace Yourself for Success: 🚶‍♀️

Remember, the holiday season is a marathon, not a sprint. Avoid overexertion by recognizing when you need breaks. Self-silencing can manifest when women prioritize societal expectations over their health, leading to feelings of isolation and dissonance.

4. Prioritize Self-Care Rituals: 🛀

Self-care is not an indulgence; it's a necessity. Dedicate time to relaxation techniques like meditation or a rejuvenating bath. Incorporate gentle exercises, such as yoga, to manage both stress and pain. Adequate rest is non-negotiable. Recognize that self-silencing can hinder your well-being.

5. Mindful Eating for Wellness: 🍽️

While savoring holiday delicacies, maintain mindfulness about your diet. Certain foods can trigger inflammation, exacerbating endometriosis symptoms. Enjoy the festive treats but remain vigilant to prevent potential endobelly discomfort.

6. Seek Professional Guidance: 🩺

If your pain becomes unmanageable, consult your healthcare provider. They possess the expertise to provide guidance on pain management strategies tailored to your needs. Prioritize your health and wellbeing over self-silencing pressures.

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik

In summary, self-care is not negotiable, even during the holiday season. These expert tips empower you to navigate festivities while keeping your health at the forefront. Recognize the importance of open communication, reject self-silencing tendencies, and make the most of this celebratory season with confidence. 💪🎄✨