Heat packs with heart: Natalie van Dartel shares her journey

Natalie van Dartel was 24 years old when she was first diagnosed with endometriosis. Her words on the experience: “scary, sad, and confusing”. Now, through play with colour and textiles, Natalie has transformed her diagnosis into a soaring small business that she runs with her Mum. The Happy Uterus, based in Canberra, fosters community and connection through bright, handmade heat packs. According to Natalie, “everyone knows someone with endo”.

Endo Articles chatted to Natalie to find out more about her story. 

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and The Happy Uterus.

I'm Nat, I am 28 years old and I run The Happy Uterus. I am a corporate girlie by day and business owner on the weekends! I was diagnosed with endometriosis (endo) via laparoscopy in March 2020, and my endo journey ultimately led me to starting the business. The Happy Uterus is my creative outlet and my connection back into the endo community.  

Q: Why was it important to you to create this business? 

The business was officially started in June 2021. The business had a really important role in my endo journey. It was mutually beneficial - it helped me connect with other people, and made me feel so much more validated, but at the same time, it has generated so many important conversations around endometriosis and pelvic pain. 

Q: What was your endometriosis diagnosis journey like? 

My diagnosis felt very lonely and isolated. I knew no one else with endo. Everything happened really quickly, and I didn’t really think twice about getting a second opinion or doing any of my own research. There were a lot of mixed emotions. Scary, sad, and confusing. 

Q: You create vibrant heat packs that demand attention. Tell us why.

For many of us with endo, heat packs are a staple in our toolkits. It was really important that I had a product that was bright and stood out among others. There is also interesting psychology behind colour and how it makes us feel, and how it affects our mood, and mental health. When we reach for our heat packs, it is usually at a time where we aren’t feeling our best, so I thought I would try to make it fun with bright colours.

Q: How do you find work/life balance with a chronic condition? 

Over the years, I have really tried to listen to my body and respect what it is telling me. If it’s exhausted, I rest. If I have a good, energetic day, I try to make the most of it. Balancing work and life with a chronic condition is about treating your body with kindness. My work life is very busy, but I always make sure I have my endo toolkit on hand, in case I get a flare up, and I always make sure I communicate how I am feeling with colleagues.

Q: Have any surprises risen out of becoming involved in endometriosis advocacy? 

Something that was really surprising to me was that almost every single person has a connection - personally - or through someone they know, with endo. Everyone knows someone with endo. I also have been surprised how open and willing people are to share their experiences. It shows that attitudes are changing, and it makes me feel so optimistic of the future. 

Q: What are some of your highlights? 

The amazing people I have met along the way. From people who are fierce advocates, to people who have gone on to create and live successful lives, beyond the setbacks that endo may have thrown.

Q: Do you have any hopes for the future of endometriosis care? 

Yes. I am optimistic. I think once we hit the jackpot and find a cure, everything will cascade from there. I hope that when I am older, I can look back and say, “I wish they had that when I was younger”.

Q: What do organisations like Endo Articles mean to you? 

They are invaluable. Having an organisation that is run to make sure no one experiences endo alone is really important to me, on a personal level. It is something I wish I had when I was diagnosed and figuring out how to navigate endo.

Q: Share your #1 piece of advice for someone just starting their endometriosis journey. 

Meet other people and share experiences. Do your own research and always know you have choices.