Cyndi Lauper's Endometriosis Journey and Advocacy Work

Cyndi Lauper's Endometriosis Diagnosis

In the early 2000s, Cyndi Lauper was at the peak of her career when she began experiencing severe menstrual pain and other symptoms. After seeking medical help, she was diagnosed with endometriosis at age 42.

This diagnosis came after over 20 years of excruciating monthly pain that Lauper assumed was normal. Doctors found that endometrial tissue had grown on her bladder, causing immense cramping, back pain, and other issues.

Years of Misdiagnoses

Prior to her endometriosis diagnosis, doctors had misdiagnosed Lauper's symptoms for decades. They passed off her heavy, irregular periods and cramping as normal menstrual pain. Some prescribed birth control pills to ease her symptoms.

This reflected the common experience of many women with endometriosis who have their symptoms minimized and written off as "just bad periods." On average, it takes 10 years for women to get accurately diagnosed with endometriosis.

Finally Getting Answers

When Lauper's pain became debilitating in her 40s, she pushed for more testing. Laparoscopic surgery revealed the endometrial implants throughout her pelvis that were causing such agony each month.

Getting this definitive endometriosis diagnosis after years of normalized suffering came as a relief, but also anger over the years of unnecessary pain due to misdiagnoses. Lauper vowed to help other women avoid that fate.

Treatment and Ongoing Symptoms

After her diagnosis, Lauper explored various treatment options to manage her endometriosis pain and symptoms.

Surgeries

Lauper has undergone multiple laparoscopic surgeries to remove endometrial lesions. However, endometriosis has a high recurrence rate after surgery. She has continued having painful symptoms after each procedure.

Hormonal Medications

Doctors prescribed hormonal medications to suppress menstrual cycles and mitigate symptoms. Lauper has tried birth control pills, GnRH agonists, and more. But she experienced significant side effects.

Natural Remedies

Lauper has found some relief using natural remedies like dietary changes, acupuncture, exercise, heating pads, and supplements. She follows an anti-inflammatory diet that avoids gluten, soy, and dairy.

Ongoing Pain

Despite treatment, Lauper has continued to battle debilitating endometriosis symptoms. She describes monthly pain so excruciating it has caused her to faint. Endometriosis has disrupted her career with last-minute cancellations when pain flares.

Raising Awareness Through Music

Cyndi Lauper has used her musical talents to raise awareness about endometriosis and support other women with the condition.

"Above the Clouds"

On her 2016 album Detour, Lauper included the song "Above the Clouds" which she wrote about her struggles with endometriosis pain and finding hope.

Benefit Concerts

Lauper has held several benefit concerts donating proceeds to the Endometriosis Foundation of America. These shows raise funds and public understanding about endometriosis.

Performing Through Pain

Lauper pushes herself to perform while experiencing endometriosis flare-ups. She does this to increase visibility and prove women can accomplish great things despite chronic illness.

Cyndi Lauper's Endometriosis Advocacy Work

In addition to music, Cyndi Lauper has been a tireless advocate for endometriosis awareness and education in many other ways.

Congressional Testimony

In 2002, Lauper testified before Congress about the need for more endometriosis research and education. She shared her personal struggles plus facts on lack of awareness and treatment options.

Public Speaking

Lauper makes herself available for interviews and speaking engagements to discuss endometriosis. She emphasizes the need to take women's pain seriously and diagnose the disorder faster.

Marching and Protests

Lauper has participated in Washington D.C. marches for endometriosis and protests demanding more governmental action. She physically advocates alongside other women with the condition.

Fundraising

In addition to benefit concerts, Lauper partners with organizations like SpeakENDO to promote their fundraising campaigns for endometriosis research and education.

Impacts of Cyndi Lauper's Advocacy

Cyndi Lauper has made significant impacts through her endometriosis advocacy over the past two decades.

Reduced Stigma

Lauper speaking openly about her endometriosis struggles reduces stigma. It helps women feel comfortable seeking help rather than suffering in silence and isolation.

Earlier Diagnosis

Lauper's advocacy results in more awareness among women and doctors. This leads to faster diagnosis and treatment instead of dismissing symptoms.

More Research Funding

Spotlighting endometriosis has led to more research funding from both government and private organizations. This expands scientific knowledge and treatment options.

Empowering Women

Seeing Lauper live boldly while battling endometriosis pain empowers other women with the condition. Her advocacy inspires them to pursue their dreams as well.

Continuing the Fight

Now in her 60s, Cyndi Lauper has battled endometriosis for over 30 years. Her passion for advocacy remains strong, as she continues to raise awareness despite her own ongoing symptoms and pain.

Lauper plans to keep speaking out until there is greater understanding of endometriosis, faster diagnosis times, improved treatment options, and ultimately a cure. Her voice provides comfort and strength to the millions of women fighting the same chronic condition.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.