Actress and model Delilah Hamlin and software engineer Hayley Pearson didn’t know each other before walking into the hospital—but after receiving endometriosis surgery from Dr. A on the same day, they met in recovery and instantly connected over their shared struggles. In this episode, they open up about their diagnosis, their surgeries, their healing journeys, and the friendship that grew from one unexpected moment.

This episode breaks down what endometriosis really is—clear, accessible, and grounded in real medical insight. We walk through the most common warning signs, the subtle symptoms people often overlook, and how to know when it’s time to advocate for yourself and ask for help. If you’ve ever wondered whether your pain is “normal,” this conversation is a must-listen.

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What You’ll Learn

How to recognize symptoms of endometriosis and avoid misdiagnosis

The importance of finding an experienced specialist for surgery

Fertility preservation and egg count testing considerations

How chronic inflammation impacts ovarian reserve

Key Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and episode overview

01:50 Fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty before diagnosis

04:33 Explanation of PMDD

10:00 Acne, bloating, hormonal imbalance, and painful periods

15:55 Why women’s pain is dismissed and misdiagnosed

29:20 Finding skilled endometriosis surgeons

32:00 Checking and freezing eggs

39:00 Painful sex and its impact on relationships

48:00 Mental health and sobriety 

51:00 Autoimmune risk and systemic inflammation

52:35 Self-advocacy, research, and navigating the healthcare system

Key Takeaways 

Women’s pain is often dismissed, making self-advocacy and research essential

Painful sex and severe menstrual symptoms can signal endometriosis, not “normal” cramps

Early diagnosis and surgery by an experienced specialist can protect fertility

Chronic inflammation from endometriosis can affect ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health

Endometriosis is linked to autoimmune risks, highlighting the need for comprehensive care

Links:

Delilah’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delilahbelle/?hl=en

Endometriosis Foundation of America: https://www.endofound.org

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: https://www.acog.org

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