This March, as the world observes Endometriosis Awareness Month, actress Taylour Paige-Angulo is using her platform to shine a light on a condition that has shaped her life in profound and painful ways.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 34-year-old Zola star shared raw, unfiltered glimpses of her post-surgery scars and moments that highlight her 20-year struggle with endometriosis.
“The lifelong journey of healing. Shows up in women who had to hold a lot in,” Paige captioned the post. “Pain, heavy bleeding, adhesions- forcing oneself to take on & take in pain that doesn’t belong to you.”
The Hit Floor star shared that it took her a while to embrace the power of saying no and prioritizing her own needs, hinting at the deep connection between endometriosis and one’s mental well-being.
“Goodness the self betrayal and abuse Ive internalized and would ruminate in. Those not for you benefit from this confusion. I’ve transmuted so much, but old habits die hard,” the caption continued.
“A really violent illness that went undiagnosed for 20 years but caused me so much agony and turmoil. Finally had surgery fall of 2023 with Wonderful Dr Elizabeth Poynor, thanks to my sister Lena. It was 4 hours long. It was on my colon, bladder, and rectum.”
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According to a study published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, endometriosis impacts about 5% of Black women in the US and causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow elsewhere—including on the ovaries, intestines, bladder, and bowels.
The disease is known to cause severe pelvic pain, extremely painful periods, pain during sex, infertility, and fatigue.
“The pain would make me see stars,” Paige shared in her caption. “Throwing up every month. Sometimes couldn’t drive.”
“The worst is how much you gaslight yourself. It’s almost like there’s no way you’re hurting this much? It definitely psychologically does something to you because it’s like you and no one around you believes the pain you’re in.”
Paige added that she would have anxiety anticipating the next month. She also reflected on running costumes, “a good pair of jeans,” and in high school, “my khaki uniform skirts” due to the heavy periods that come with endometriosis.
“I learned over the last few years that endo is anger turned on yourself. You’re literally inflamed. That tracked for me. So many women are going THROUGH it okay. Be gentle with us.”
Paige ended her caption with a note of gratitude for her husband, fashion designer Garry “Rivington Starchild” Angulo, close friends, and a “calm nervous system because I’m experiencing healthy partnership and beautiful sisterhood.”
“I’m thankful for good bloodwork and new days. Sunshine. good walks. Jumping on my mini trampoline. it’s not just one thing it’s a whole lot of things & I’m thankful we live in a time we can share & help each other! A few bloated pics, some post surgery, childhood internalizing, a good read. I love you.”
Other Black women celebrities who have chronicled their struggle with endometriosis include Gabrielle Union, Jessica Williams, Tia Mowry, and Whoopi Goldberg.
