Jennifer Sears is an actress with a 20-year career in film and television, best known for her breakout role in Madea’s Family Reunion and her work on Tyler Perry’s Divorce Sistas. She has used her platform to raise awareness about endometriosis after being misdiagnosed for years and eventually diagnosed with stage 4 disease.In today’s episode, Jennifer joins me to discuss her journey with endometriosis, how her symptoms were dismissed for years as “normal period pain”, and the treatments she had to undergo.We dive into why endometriosis is so often missed or dismissed, how medical gaslighting delays diagnosis for years, and the connection between chronic pain, infertility, and inflammation. Jennifer also shares her experience with infertility and how she was finally diagnosed after years of being overlooked.Our discussion explores the impact of endometriosis on mental health, relationships, career, and daily life. We also discuss available diagnosis and treatment options and the limitations in the healthcare system that make diagnosis and treatment so difficult.Jennifer also talks about endometriosis symptoms you should not ignore, lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms, and how to advocate for yourself and others in healthcare.Join us today as we dive into endometriosis symptoms you should not ignore, how to advocate for yourself in healthcare, the truth about diagnosis and treatment options, and how you can help others feel seen and get the help they need.Jennifer Sears's Links:https://www.instagram.com/iamjensears/Dr Somi Javaid's Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/somi-javaidhttps://www.drsomi.com/Personalized menopause and sexual health care, longer visits, trusted experts, all from home: https://www.HerMD.com