Ovarian cancer and menopause at 19 mean I can't have kids, but it's changed me for the better
Enlli Thompson, a 19-year-old diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer, shares her journey through diagnosis, chemotherapy, and surgical menopause. Despite the loss of her fertility, she describes a positive shift in her personal outlook and mental well-being.
Why it matters
The story highlights the importance of early diagnosis for ovarian cancer and the long-term psychological and physical impacts on young survivors.
Image source, Enlli Thompson Image caption, Enlli froze seven eggs before having chemotherapy for stage 3 ovarian cancer
When Enlli Thompson's periods changed and she began experiencing excruciating pain at 19, she was told by doctors there was nothing wrong.
Her stomach issues and headaches were blamed on a bug or a urinary infection - even anxiety.
It was only after Enlli had further tests when a scan showed a cyst in her pelvis that the teenager from Caernarfon, Gwynedd, was given the devastating news she had ovarian cancer.
She would need a full hysterectomy to remove her womb, which would put her into immediate menopause, and means she is not able to have children.
But Enlli said her life had changed for the better.
"I used to be quiet and shy, but now I feel like I'm in a really good place," she said.
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