Esther Kimemia, a menstrual cycle coach, author, and endometriosis warrior, has been courageously battling the debilitating effects of endometriosis since her early teens. Her journey began when she started her period at the age of nine, but it wasn’t until she turned 13 that the pain became excruciating, accompanied by heavier and lumpy flow. At 15, a hike up Mount Kenya triggered a severe hemorrhage, and she recalls being advised to take Panadol, though it provided no relief. Alongside the pain, she faced symptoms such as chronic constipation, migraines, fatigue, and recurrent infections.
Despite seeking medical help, Esther struggled to receive a diagnosis. Endometriosis was not widely understood at the time, leading to years of misdiagnosis. Eventually, a urologist diagnosed her with chronic cystitis after a cystoscopy, but despite multiple rounds of antibiotics, the pain persisted. It was only later that a gynecologist suspected endometriosis, which was confirmed through a laparoscopic surgery. The condition had caused her left ovary to attach to her large intestine, explaining the pain during ovulation and bowel movements.
Finally receiving a diagnosis brought a sense of relief. Esther had often been dismissed, with some doctors suggesting the pain was psychological. At one point, due to recurrent ovarian cysts, she underwent tests for cancer markers. This diagnosis marked the beginning of her mission to raise awareness about endometriosis. She started Yellow Endo Flower, a platform dedicated to sharing the stories of women living with the condition. At the time, it often took over seven years to get a proper diagnosis for endometriosis, and the symptoms varied widely from person to person. Esther also established a support group for women on the Kenyan coast, from Malindi to Diani, called Coral Bloom.
In her efforts to educate young girls, Esther published Bloom, a One-Year Period Diary, a book designed to help girls track their menstrual cycles and understand their health. Later, she developed the Furaha Program, a 10-session curriculum for girls aged 9-12 that covers puberty, anatomy, menstruation, hygiene, self-esteem, and more.
In 2022, Esther trained as a menstrual cycle coach, a transformative experience that empowered her to help others live in harmony with their cycles. However, in 2023, her symptoms returned with a vengeance. She began bleeding uncontrollably for 17 to 25 days a month, and hormonal treatments like the Mirena coil, Lupride, and Zoladex failed to provide relief. In addition to the bleeding, she struggled with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, experiencing severe mood swings, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts.
Despite undergoing two minor procedures, a hysteroscopy and dilation and curettage (D&C), her symptoms persisted, and the only remaining option was a hysterectomy. The emotional toll of considering the removal of her womb was significant, despite already having three children. It took months of therapy to prepare for the surgery, but by October 2024, Esther underwent a total hysterectomy, removing both her uterus and cervix. The decision, though emotionally heavy, improved her quality of life, and she gradually came to terms with the change, realizing that womanhood is not defined by the presence of a uterus.
While her recovery was challenging, especially with fluid discharge from the wound, Esther ultimately regained her strength and felt liberated from the constant burden of her menstrual cycle. Her journey has not been without mental health struggles, and she was diagnosed with Bipolar II Disorder in 2023. Today, she receives care through a multidisciplinary treatment plan.
Endometriosis, a chronic and complex disease, affects millions of women and girls globally, often causing severe pain, bloating, fatigue, and infertility. It is frequently misdiagnosed or dismissed as “just bad cramps,” delaying treatment for many women. Although there is no known cure, early diagnosis and effective symptom management are critical to improving quality of life.
