Sometimes, the most impactful way to understand a condition is through the voices of those who’ve lived it. Two remarkable Nigerian actresses, Zainab Balogun and Nse Ikpe-Etim, have courageously shared their personal battles with endometriosis and adenomyosis, shedding light on these often-misunderstood conditions.

Zainab Balogun: Turning Pain into Purpose

Zainab Balogun endured over 20 years of excruciating pain before being diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis. Her journey was fraught with challenges, including hair loss due to treatment. Instead of retreating, Zainab chose to channel her experience into advocacy. She produced a psychological thriller titled Blood, aiming to raise awareness about endometriosis and the silent struggles many women face. Her openness has inspired countless others to seek help and speak out .Vanguard Allure+1Punch News+1Nollywire+4BellaNaija+4Violet Simon+4

Nse Ikpe-Etim: Embracing Healing and Empowerment

Nse Ikpe-Etim’s journey took a different path. Diagnosed with adenomyosis—a condition where the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall—she faced the heart-wrenching decision to undergo a hysterectomy. In her words, “I had no choice but to remove my womb to live a normal life.” Nse has been candid about her feelings of inadequacy following the procedure, but her story is one of resilience and empowerment. By sharing her experience, she’s breaking the silence and encouraging others to prioritize their health .Kanyi Daily News+9YabaLeftOnline+9Vanguard Allure+9The Nation Newspaper+4eelive+4Premium Times Nigeria+4tooXclusive

Why Their Stories Matter

In many African communities, discussions around reproductive health are shrouded in silence and stigma. The bravery of Zainab and Nse in sharing their truths challenges these norms and opens the door for more conversations. Their stories underscore the importance of listening to our bodies, seeking medical advice, and supporting one another.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going– Together

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like severe menstrual pain, fatigue, or fertility issues, don’t dismiss them. Seek medical advice, ask questions, and advocate for your health. Remember, you’re not alone, and your pain is valid.

If any of this sounds familiar to you, if you’ve felt dismissed, unheard, or simply confused about your own body, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out on your own either.

That’s why we created Moms Round Table—a live discussion space on TikTok where African moms gather to talk honestly about the issues we face. From painful periods to fertility challenges, family pressure, and healthcare neglect—we talk, we share, we listen, and we seek solutions together.

Join us for our next Moms Round Table
📅 Saturday, May 24th
🕗 8PM (WAT)
📍 Live on TikTok @sushluv69 

ff @momat4ty on Tiktok

It happens every 3rd Saturday of the month—mark your calendar, grab a zobo or your wrapper, and come be part of the sisterhood that’s rewriting the narrative for African women, one honest conversation at a time.

Because you deserve to be heard. You deserve care. And you deserve answers.