Holly Abel had a 10% Chance to Live: Stage 4 Endo, Sepsis and the Hysterectomy That Saved Her Life

It's Endometriosis Awareness Month. Ali's guest this week, Holly Abel, was eleven years old when her debilitating periods started. For decades, doctors told her it was “normal.” That she was dramatic. Hormonal. Sensitive. It wasn’t normal. In early 2023, Holly was finally diagnosed with severe stage 4 endometriosis — affecting multiple organs throughout her body. Shortly after, she experienced a miscarriage. In December 2023, she underwent major surgery. Then in March 2024, after a routine HSG, everything began to unravel. By early May, she was in septic shock and given a 10% chance to live. In July, a total hysterectomy saved her life… and ended her ability to carry children. Holly talks about all of this and more in an educational, emotional episode about medical trauma, advocacy and survival. EPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIES Ali's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology The 3-book bundle is now just $49 (normally $79)! The latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them. PHERDAL IG: @pherdal_science PherDal is the world’s first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who’ve been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com. Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off. BELI IG: @belibaby Are you thinking about growing your family? Whether you're just starting to plan or are actively trying to conceive, preconception health is key. Beli has vitamins to help both women and men optimize their health before pregnancy. With essential nutrients like Folate, Iodine, and Zinc, Beli ensures your body is ready for this exciting next step. Give yourself and your future baby the best foundation for a healthy start. Visit Belibaby.com today and use code IAF15 for 15% off your first order. Advertising Inquiries: Privacy & Opt-Out:

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Holly Abel had a 10% Chance to Live: Stage 4 Endo, Sepsis and the Hysterectomy That Saved Her Life is an episode from Infertile AF by Alison Prato.

This episode is 32:58 long.

This episode was published on Mar 2, 2026.

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