After waiting 2 years for an appointment. I finally got scheduled for a virtual appointment happening today. Any idea on the right questions to ask my doctor? I have a 3cm fibroid, IBS- M and recently got iron infusion for low iron levels. My levels are good now, my energy is better and my brain isn’t foggy anymore, but I still get inconsistent periods and deal with serious gut issues. I don’t want to be dismissed again, how can I ensure I’m taken seriously?

We ask because we have heard a lot in this community. And some of it deserves to be said out loud. "Your labs are normal." "It's probably just stress." "This is what happens at your age." "Have you tried eating less?" "Have you considered that it might be anxiety?" We hear these from women who are clinically literate, who have done their research, who have been demonstrating careers and households while feeling like a diminished version of themselves. You were not wrong to push back. You were not being difficult. You were right that something was being missed. And the fact that you are in this community means part of you never stopped looking for the right answer. Drop yours below. One sentence. What is the thing that was said to you that you knew was not the full story?

Hi, my name is Ade. For the longest time, I’ve struggled with my gut health. My gastroenterologist has been dismissive of my symptoms, and basically gave me a pill to relieve my symptoms without treatment of the root cause. I’m hoping I can get the help I need in this community, so I can feel better and stronger.