TUT student shares strength amid Endometriosis challenges

Endometriosis Awareness Month highlights the challenges of a condition that affects at least 1 in 10 women, as well as the resilience needed to balance daily life.

Paballo Moyo The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) regularly raises awareness and supports students living with it, including Paballo Grace Moyo, a Diploma in Accounting student, who is using her personal journey with Endometriosis to raise awareness while pursuing her academic goals.

Diagnosed four years ago, Moyo lives with the chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation and in some cases infertility. Although the condition affects one in ten women, it remains widely misunderstood and not spoken about.

Originally from Soshanguve, Moyo balances University life with the daily realities of severe menstrual pain, pelvic and abdominal pain, lower back pain, bloating and leg pain. During flare-ups, the pain becomes overwhelming and, at times, forces her to miss classes or withdraw from social activities.

She also faces nausea, vomiting, fatigue and the emotional strain of living with an invisible illness. Managing her condition alongside academic demands requires constant adjustment as she adapts her schedule based on her health.

Moyo highlights the financial burden of ongoing treatment and medication as another challenge. Despite this, she remains committed to her studies and continues to push forward with determination.

She manages her symptoms through prescribed medication, herbal teas, supplements, heat therapy, exercise, rest and sleep. Her approach reflects discipline and resilience as she navigates both her health and academic responsibilities.

During Endometriosis Awareness Month, her story highlights the importance of empathy, understanding and support for students living with chronic conditions. Raising awareness can reduce stigma, encourage early diagnosis and create a more supportive environment.

Moyo now advocates for greater awareness and encourages other students to speak openly and seek help. She says sharing experiences can help others realise they are not alone.

The University community’s ongoing support for students with endometriosis includes promoting awareness and encouraging flexible learning environments that enable them to succeed academically and personally.

Her journey reflects courage, resilience and a commitment to succeed despite ongoing challenges.