On average, it takes seven years before a patient living with endometriosis symptoms receives a definitive diagnosis. Oftentimes, the disorder hadn’t even crossed their mind. Just as we track our cycles, says Lacey Marks, MD, FACOG, obstetrics and gynecology provider at MultiCare Rockwood Clinic, it’s important to watch our symptoms over time, too. Those without endometriosis may report heavy periods or intense cramps that dissipate between cycles. But people with endometriosis are more likely to experience a continual worsening of symptoms, to the point that they’re having pain between cycles. (fb)

Ashley Schuster credits one phone call with saving her life. In November 2024, she discovered she was 19 weeks pregnant — a fact she hadn’t realized until then due to her opioid usage. Quitting on her own wasn’t taking, and Ashley knew she needed help. She called the MultiCare Foundations donor-supported Substance Treatment and Recovery Training (START) inpatient unit at MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital, and someone picked up after one ring. “They said they had beds available … and if I wanted to, I could begin that same day,” she remembers. “I said, ‘Give me two hours, and I’ll be there.’” (fb)