Olympian Brittany Brown on Endometriosis as an Elite Athlete

Olympic sprinter Brittany Brown joins Dr. Nicholas Fogelson to talk candidly about living, training, and competing with endometriosis at the highest level. From years of painful and heavy periods, to receiving dismissive medical advice, to eventually undergoing surgery in the middle of an elite track career, Brittany shares what it took to advocate for herself and what recovery actually looked like. They discuss the physical toll of endometriosis, the mental challenge of adjusting expectations after surgery, and why more honest conversations are needed about diagnosis, treatment, and life after "pushing through." Episode Highlights: Brittany shares how endometriosis symptoms began in college and gradually intensified during her rise as an elite sprinter How chronic pain, fatigue, and inflammation affected Brittany's body on and off the track Her medical journey and experience with medical dismissal, including being told to consider a hysterectomy or having a baby as a solution What surgery and recovery looked like for a professional athlete trying to return to high-intensity competition Brittany reflects on advocacy, visibility, and supporting other athletes navigating endometriosis and surgery For clinical consultations: contact Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery in Portland, OR at (503) 715-1377 or email us at [email protected]  Follow us on Instagram: @Nicholasfogelson and @drshantimohling Download a transcript of this episode.