As of June 10, more than 63 percent of Americans had received at least their first vaccination against COVID-19. MyEndometriosisTeam members who have been vaccinated are eagerly sharing their hopes and plans now that vaccination has lowered their risk for experiencing serious illness from the potentially deadly virus.

“I've never been so grateful for any vaccine in my life,” one MyEndometriosisTeam member said. Another added, “I would take getting the vaccine and side effects any day over getting COVID-19!”

Fun With Friends and Family

Many MyEndometriosisTeam members are excited for fun activities with friends and family again. Others are reveling in a return to normal social plans. “Went out for some drinks and food with some friends, and now this mama is tired,” shared one member.

That sentiment has been reflected in society at large as well, with many people noting that going out again after a year in quarantine can be a bit tiring. Your best bet is to make your socializing decisions carefully.

“Reentering society and socializing again is going to be a process,” wrote author Clay Drinko, Ph.D., in March. “Just like adjusting to pandemic life last year, this new transition is going to have its ups and downs. Instead of having unreasonably high expectations (I’m going to host a block party and be the belle of the ball), try to take it one step at a time and be curious about how each new interaction affects you (I'm going to try to talk to the neighbor and just see how it goes).”

Medical Appointments and Personal Care

About half of American adults have delayed or skipped some aspect of medical or dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. As MyEndometriosisTeam members get vaccinated, many are taking the earliest opportunity to schedule medical visits, eye appointments, dental exams, and diagnostic tests needed for endometriosis monitoring.

“I recently had bloodwork done for thyroid, vitamin D, B12, and other stuff,” shared one MyEndometriosisTeam member. Another said they were planning to reschedule endometriosis surgery, which had been delayed due to the pandemic.

Looking Forward To Travel

As travel restrictions lift and more people are vaccinated, some MyEndometriosisTeam members are beginning to look forward to their first vacations in more than a year. Some members are hoping to travel to meet each other for the first time.

“Hey, I am hopefully moving to Jackson this summer. Want to be friends? I’m looking for more endo friends. We understand each other!” shared one member. Another said, “Scandinavia is on my bucket list. I would love to go when the pandemic is over!”

Staying Cautious After Vaccination

Members report that they’re continuing to be cautious when socializing. “I'm fully vaccinated, but still don't wish to travel,” wrote one MyEndometriosisTeam member.

Even after you are fully vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends continuing to take precautions, such as:

• Wearing masks
• Staying six feet apart from others in public spaces
• Avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated public spaces

Ensuring that you continue to prioritize your safety can help ease your mind as you get back into the swing of post-vaccine life, wrote psychologist Marina Harris, Ph.D., in May. “By following guidelines and associated protocols, combined with the vaccine, you’re being as safe as you can possibly be.”

Local health authorities may have additional guidelines in place for your state or county. Be sure to check what’s permitted before planning activities.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyEndometriosisTeam is the social network for people with endometriosis and their loved ones. On MyEndometriosisTeam, more than 117,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with endometriosis.

Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19? Are you making plans now that your risk for infection is lower? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.