Endometriosis is costing women, and Australia, an estimated total of $9.7 billion per year in medical bills and lost productivity, according to new research.
This equates to an average cost of $30,000 per sufferer per year, both personally and to society.
Around 20–40% of this cost sits directly within the health sector:
– Medications
– Doctor visits
– Assisted reproductive technology (e.g. IVF)
– Transport costs to attend appointments
The remaining 60–80% is due to lost productivity, either from absenteeism or presenteeism—being physically present but unable to perform due to severe pain and discomfort.
Reducing pain caused by endometriosis by just 20% could save Australia billions.
This condition affects more than 830,000 women—over 10% of Australia’s female population.
Symptoms vary widely, contributing to the condition being overlooked or misdiagnosed for 7–12 years, with 1 in 5 doctors missing the diagnosis.
At least 50% of patients experience fertility issues.
Given the scale, one would expect significantly more research, education, awareness, investment, and progress in this field.
Yet many men remain unaware of what endometriosis even is.
This is not necessarily the fault of men.
It is a failure of the system to provide adequate education and visibility.
Women are not being treated with the care, respect, or urgency this condition demands.
It’s time things changed.
