When Molly (Kristen Vaganos) was diagnosed with endometriosis on General Hospital back in May 2023, she learned that she would have difficulty getting pregnant and carrying a baby to term, and that the chronic condition was something she would have to manage for the rest of her life.
Molly is currently dealing with a painful endometriosis flareup, and has yet to share her diagnosis with her new boyfriend, Cody (Josh Kelly). Here’s the 411 on the medical condition.
The Toll of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These growths can respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, which may cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue to develop. This can lead to chronic pelvic pain and may also contribute to fertility challenges for some people.
GH stars Kirsten Storms (Maxie) and Kate Mansi (Kristina) have both gone public with their own endometriosis diagnoses.
An estimated 10% of women of reproductive age globally are affected by endometriosis. Treatments can range from managing symptoms with medication to surgery to remove endometriosis lesions, with procedures such as a hysterectomy sometimes considered in severe cases.
Back in the spring of 2023, when Molly and TJ were struggling to have a baby, she underwent tests to see why she was having trouble getting pregnant. It was then that she was first diagnosed with endometriosis.
After exploring the possibility of adoption, the couple ultimately decided to have Molly’s sister, Kristina, act as their surrogate. Kristina became pregnant using her own egg and TJ’s sperm.
As her due date neared, Kristina decided that she wanted to keep and raise the baby herself, then tragically miscarried after a near-fatal fall from a window at The Metro Court following a heated confrontation with Ava (Maura West).
Soap operas have a long history of telling socially-relevant storylines that bring awareness to issues that affect women’s health, such as breast cancer, abortion, and HIV/AIDS.
As Molly’s journey with endometriosis continues, her storyline highlights both the challenges of living with endometriosis and the resilience required to navigate them — and hopefully, it will inspire viewers who may be experiencing symptoms to speak with their doctors and explore treatment options.
