Home » Our People » EndoChampions » Lauren Menkens Endo Champion

Lauren Menkens is a Pilates Instructor and Studio Manager based in Brisbane, holding a degree in Biomedical Science. Her passion for movement and education is deeply personal, shaped by her own health journey.

Lauren first experienced symptoms when she got her first period. Her cycles were heavy and extremely painful to the point where she relied on multiple medications just to get through the day. On the first day of her period, the pain would often leave her curled up in the foetal position in tears. For years, she believed this was simply “normal.”

In 2018, Lauren was finally diagnosed with Stage 4 endometriosis and underwent surgery shortly after. While she was fortunate to gain better pain control in the years that followed, in 2020 she was also diagnosed with PCOS, adding another layer to her health journey.

Living with endometriosis has impacted her more than she initially realised. Working in a physically demanding and active role means she is on her feet and exercising most days, and there have been times where pain has forced her to step back from work. Beyond the physical symptoms, the constant bloating and inflammation have affected her confidence and body image.

It was through conversations with other women — many of whom also believed their pain was “normal” — that Lauren felt compelled to speak up. She realised that too many women are suffering in silence, navigating a disease that still has no cure. Through sharing her story, Lauren hopes to raise awareness, encourage earlier diagnosis, and remind women that their pain is real, valid, and deserving of answers.

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