Scout’s quiet fight paves the way for Endometriosis advocacy.

Learning that her  body isn’t fighting against her has been one of Scout Fraser’s most challenging battles living with Endometriosis.

Not only has it completely shaped how she sees her body, at times her body has betrayed her and kept Scout from living her best life.

“ Over time I’ve learned that my body isn’t against me; it’s  doing its best in a difficult fight.

“I honour it by resting when I need to, nourishing it well, and celebrating every small victory on the days I feel strong,” she said.

Scout is one of the millions of Australians who live with endometriosis with the condition affecting  one in 7 women, from everything from regular chronic pain, fatigue, disrupted careers, and overlooked mental health challenges.

Endometriosis is present when tissue that is like the lining of the uterus (womb) occurs outside this layer and in other parts of the body causing pain and/or infertility.

The lining layer is called the endometrium, and this is the layer of tissue that is shed each month with menstruation (period) or where a pregnancy settles and grows.

I’ve had to let go of the idea that beauty is about being flawless or pain-free.

“My worth doesn’t depend on how flat my stomach is or how much energy I have. I’ve also had to stop letting endo bloat ruin my day and relearn how to love my body, even when it’s in the middle of a flare.

“Letting go of the old ideal of being “skinny” has allowed me to see real beauty in showing up with kindness, strength, and compassion even on the days I’m bloated or exhausted,” Scout said.

For Scout how she cares for her body has become a ritual one that requires her to tap in and listen to her body’s cues it also about pacing herself at work, choosing nourishing foods and giving the gift of grace when she has a flare day.

“On my hardest days, I turn to simple rituals: a quiet cup of tea after work, slow walks, and honest conversations with people I trust.”

Since her diagnosis Scout has taken her strength and passion and created a support group locally  with QENDO which advocates for those affected by endometriosis and other pelvic health related conditions across Australia and New Zealand.

“I never thought I’d heal from the frustration of being dismissed for over 10 years with endometriosis.

“ Learning more about the condition, finding supportive specialists, and connecting with others who understand has softened that wound and helped me reclaim hope.”

“They (support group) remind me that even in pain, I’m still whole — still more than a diagnosis,” Scout said.

One of Scout’s most powerful messages to women who are in the middle of healing is that you don’t need to be “fixed” to be worthy of love and rest.

“Give yourself permission to take up space, to go gently, and to celebrate even the smallest progress. Healing isn’t a straight line, but you’re already moving forward.”

And part of the message has been thanks to Scout working on using  her voice and building boundaries, to not just protect her peace but to advocate for others.

“Endometriosis has taught me the importance of speaking up for myself and others — in front of health care professionals, in workplaces, and in relationships. I have had the opportunity to speak with MP’s, the Mayor and healthcare professionals about my journey of endometriosis and the journey others face with pelvic pain.

“ I’ve learned that using my voice is a form of self-respect, but I also know when to step back and protect my peace by choosing where my energy goes.”

And with that self-respect comes, showing up even when the thought of it is intimidating and out of Scout’s comfort zone.

“Sharing my endometriosis story publicly for the first time was terrifying, but I did it because I didn’t want anyone to feel as alone as I once did. That moment showed me that vulnerability is one of the bravest forms of strength,” Scout said.

To learn more visit: https://endometriosisaustralia.org/  or https://www.qendo.org.au/