My Story | Pausefully

Hello there! I'm Vicki Hodges.

With 30 years of experience facing challenges myself, I am dedicated to ensuring that everyone navigating the emotional complexities of endometriosis and fertility have access to, and receive, the right support. Learn how to prioritise your emotional wellbeing, advocate for yourself, and take control over your fertility journey.

My goal is to raise awareness about endometriosis whilst enabling quicker access to necessary support, ultimately improving quality of life, and allowing individuals to reach their full potential.

I hear you, I see you, I'm here to listen

For years I was dismissed by professionals and feeling ignore when it came to my endometriosis, fertility and IVF journey or menstrual health.

In my teenage years I started with heavy, painful periods. I was simply prescribed the pill despite the fact I didn’t ask for it, want it or receive an explanation to how it would help me.

By my twenties, chronic pain, fatigue, and severe blood loss were not only diminishing my quality of life but also affecting my personal and professional life. Frequent sick days and medical appointments, compounded by a lack of understanding or empathy from others, made it difficult to maintain a consistent presence at work, or with family and friends. I was often met with unsympathetic comments like, “That’s normal for periods,” leaving me feeling unsupported and frustrated.

I understand the challenges you face in your personal life and career

By my thirties the pain, fatigue and ‘flooding’ each month had taken its toll. I had been trying to conceive for years and still told there was ‘unexplained infertility’ which eventually led to my IVF journey. I asked to be sent for more tests and “the results came back normal.” Due to the stigmas and discrimination, I felt like I had to hide my IVF treatments from my employer, which further complicated my ability to advance in my career while managing the challenges of endometriosis.

At the age of fourty, after years of fighting and advocating for myself despite numerous setbacks, I was finally diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, which resulted in two major surgeries in 3 years. Throughout this journey, I trusted my intuition that something was wrong, despite being met with gaslighting, dismissive attitudes, and a lack of empathy. The emotional toll of these experiences left me feeling disempowered, triggered, struggling with anxiety, and feeling lost and invisible.

Who am I and how can I help you?

Facing these challenges led me to unhealthy coping strategies, but I knew change was necessary. Nurturing emotional health, self-love, soul-searching inspired me to become a certified coach and trainee counsellor specialising in endometriosis. My journey has equipped me with empathy and insight, allowing me to offer genuine, compassionate assistance in guiding others facing similar struggles to advocate for their needs, and confidently take back control.

I recognise the good that comes from women embracing their power

It's time to pause fully...slow down and take the time to truly understand yourself better. By finding your voice and advocating for yourself, you can ensure your wellbeing is always a priority and confidently change your health outcomes.

Everyday I feel honoured that people put trust in me, allowing themselves to be vulnerable and rise up to reclaim their power. I recognise everyone has different life journeys and experiences however my goal is to empower you to turn your struggles into strengths, transforming your overall quality of life and helping you become the best version of yourself.