share my story with others to help them find the right avenues for whatever they’re struggling with. I’m also an advocate for mental health,” Foxx shares. “I also work closely with The National Alliance to speak about mental illness. I’ve shared my story with anxiety, and now I partner with the Endometriosis Foundation of America, and I’m sharing my story with endometriosis. I want to make someone else’s journey not as difficult as mine.”
Her advocacy work also includes making sure her sisters are aware of how to advocate for themselves.
“I have two sisters that are 14 and 15 years old. I’ve been very candid with them about my experience so that if they experience any pain in the future, they know what to do, they know where to go, and I can kind of guide the way for them,” Foxx says.
Managing endometriosis
According to the Mayo Clinic, endometriosis is an often painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus.
The illness is often referred to as invisible and most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis. When endometriosis involves the ovaries, cysts called endometriomas can form. Surrounding tissue can become irritated, eventually developing scar tissue and adhesions — bands of fibrous tissue that can cause pelvic tissues and organs to stick to each other.
The pain can intensify during your menstrual cycle and be mistaken for cramps.
There isn’t a cure for endometriosis, however, there are several options available to provide relief from symptoms including medication and conservative surgery.
A healthy diet and exercise can also be beneficial in managing endometriosis.
“A healthy diet and exercise stress management are huge for the condition because it’s an inflammatory disease. So when you’re stressed, your body is more inflamed, and therefore your symptoms will worsen. Meditation practice is critical for me to sleep,” Foxx says.
Finding a doctor with whom you feel comfortable will be a crucial step toward managing and treating endometriosis. Before starting any treatment, consider getting a second opinion to be sure you know all of your options and the possible outcomes.