421. The Invisible Battle: Understanding Endometriosis With Curve Model Katya Karlova

·1 hr 12 min·5 clips

Katya reveals endometriosis surgeries cost her the ability to have children, a choice taken away.

The episode begins with host Reena Friedman Watts introducing the show's format and today's guest, Katya Karlova. Katya first describes the apocalyptic LA wildfires from her perspective, detailing evacuation warnings and neighborhood destruction. She then transitions to discussing online hate and Instagram's algorithmic discrimination against her curvy body, which flags her content as adult. Katya explains boudoir photography as a tool for body confidence and traces her body image issues to teenage years. She shares how COVID lockdown prompted therapy and lifestyle changes, leading to a diagnosis of body dysmorphia. The conversation shifts to endometriosis: Katya recounts painful periods since age 14, being prescribed Vicodin and birth control, and gaining 50 pounds from hormonal treatments. She describes a 22-year journey to diagnosis, involving multiple doctors, ER visits, and being told the pain was in her head. Katya finally found a doctor for exploratory surgery, revealing endometriosis lesions everywhere, but improper treatment led to losing fertility. She discusses the emotional impact and her husband's support. Katya highlights endometriosis' prevalence, linking it to weight gain, gastrointestinal issues, and SIBO. She advises an anti-inflammatory diet and bringing a male advocate to doctor appointments to combat medical sexism. Katya shares her immigration story from Moldova to the US, her parents' 50-year marriage, and her current projects: a book, documentary, and foundation for endometriosis research. Reena's father, Wayne Friedman, reflects on the episode, comparing Katya's experience to his sister's and questioning if doctors treat symptoms rather than root causes. He praises Katya's vulnerability and mentorship for others facing similar struggles.

As heard by us

A candid look at endometriosis, delayed answers, and the pressure to self-advocate in a difficult care system.

Endometriosis is framed as pain that keeps widening its territory: severe periods, ovulation pain, pre-period pain, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and severe lower-back pain.

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Why you'd press play

You want the real story behind pain that keeps getting routed to another doctor's office.

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