While so often undiscussed (and undiagnosed), women all over the world are suffering from endometriosis. The condition affects 1 in 10 women, impacting nearly every aspect of their lives. It could be your mother, your best friend, your coworker or even you—it's likely that the painful condition has affected someone you love.

Because early symptoms of endometriosis often present as painful or heavy periods—something routinely normalized—it can take an average of 7.5 years to get a diagnosis. Alongside common physical symptoms, such as menstrual cycle irregularities, cramping and gastrointestinal issues, the condition can cause sexual dysfunction, mental health struggles, career setbacks and fertility problems.

The effects of endometriosis are far-reaching, which is why we're covering it all for Endometriosis Awareness Month. In our four-part series, we'll discuss how endometriosis connects to your mental health (and what you can do about it), what planning for children looks like with the condition, how women's careers are being impacted by a lack of awareness and understanding, and how you can have your very best sex.