Endometriosis: What Every Woman Should Know

Periods can be uncomfortable.

But they shouldn’t run your life.

For millions of women, symptoms like severe period pain, bloating, fatigue and pelvic pain aren’t just a bad cycle, they may be caused by endometriosis.

In Australia, around 1 in 7 women and girls are estimated to live with endometriosis, making it one of the most common chronic conditions affecting women.

Despite how common it is, many women still spend years searching for answers.

In this post, we aim to break down:

• what endometriosis actually is
• what to do if you suspect you have it
• 10 facts every woman should know
• the support and resources available in Australia

Because when it comes to your health, being informed changes everything.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.

This tissue can grow on:

• ovaries
• fallopian tubes
• bladder
• bowel
• pelvic lining

Just like the uterine lining, it responds to hormones during the menstrual cycle. The difference is this tissue has nowhere to go, which can cause inflammation, scar tissue and significant pain.

Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:

• Severe period pain
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Pain when going to the toilet
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Bloating (often called endo belly)
• Fatigue
• Fertility challenges

Some people experience mild symptoms. Others find their daily life, work and relationships significantly affected.

Why Endometriosis Awareness Matters

Historically, endometriosis has been under-recognised and under-researched.

Many women are told painful periods are “normal”, which often leads to long delays before diagnosis.

On average, Australians with endometriosis wait 6–8 years before receiving a diagnosis.

That’s nearly a decade of pain for some women before they’re taken seriously.

The good news? Awareness and medical support in Australia are slowly improving.

What To Do If You Think You Have Endometriosis

If your symptoms feel overwhelming or unusual, trust your instinct.

Here’s where to start.

1. Track Your Symptoms

Doctors often rely on symptom patterns to guide diagnosis.

Track things like:

• pain levels
• cycle timing
• heavy bleeding
• digestive symptoms
• fatigue
• pelvic pain outside your period

The clearer your record, the easier it is for doctors to understand what’s happening.

2. Book an Appointment With Your GP

Your GP is usually the first step.

Explain clearly:

• when symptoms started
• how severe the pain is
• how it affects work, school or daily life

If you feel dismissed, seeking another opinion is completely reasonable.

3. Ask About Imaging or Specialist Referral

Doctors may recommend:

• pelvic ultrasound
• MRI scans
• referral to a gynaecologist

While surgery has historically been required to confirm endometriosis, new diagnostic pathways aim to reduce delays and improve early treatment.

4. Find a Specialist

A gynaecologist experienced in endometriosis can help you explore treatment options such as:

• hormonal therapy
• pain management
• pelvic physiotherapy
• surgery in severe cases

Treatment plans vary widely because endometriosis affects everyone differently.

5. Connect With Australian Support Organisations

You don’t have to navigate endometriosis alone.

These organisations provide information, resources and community support:

• Endometriosis Australia
• QENDO (Queensland Endometriosis Organisation)
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health

They offer education, support groups and practical advice for living with the condition.

Endometriosis Support in Australia

Australia has taken steps to improve care, including the National Action Plan for Endometriosis.

Australia launched this national strategy in 2018, making it the first coordinated national plan to tackle the condition.

The plan focuses on:

• improving awareness and education
• earlier diagnosis
• better clinical treatment
• increased research funding

This is a step in the right direction. The more awareness and education that exists, the higher the chances of earlier diagnosis and better treatment options.

Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain Clinics

The Australian Government has funded specialised pelvic pain clinics across the country to improve diagnosis and treatment access.

These clinics provide multidisciplinary care including:

• gynaecologists
• physiotherapists
• pain specialists
• mental health support

This approach recognises that endometriosis often affects multiple areas of health and wellbeing.

PBS Medication Support

In 2025, new medications for endometriosis were added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), helping reduce treatment costs for thousands of Australian women.

These changes aim to make long-term treatment more accessible and affordable.

10 Facts Every Woman Should Know About Endometriosis

1. It affects millions of Australians

Around 1 in 7 Australian women live with endometriosis.

2. It often starts in teenage years

Symptoms frequently begin during adolescence but may not be diagnosed until later.

3. Severe period pain is not normal

If your pain stops you going to work, school or social events, it deserves investigation.

4. Diagnosis delays are common

Many women wait 6–8 years for diagnosis.

5. It can affect more than reproductive organs

Endometriosis can impact the bowel, bladder and pelvic nerves.

6. Fertility can be affected

Some women with endometriosis experience difficulty conceiving.

7. There’s currently no cure

However, treatment can significantly improve quality of life.

8. The economic impact is huge

Endometriosis costs billions globally due to healthcare costs and lost productivity.

9. Research is improving

Australia continues to invest in research to improve diagnosis and treatment.

10. Early diagnosis changes outcomes

The earlier endometriosis is recognised, the sooner treatment can begin.

The Bottom Line

Pain that disrupts your life isn’t something you should have to ignore.

Education and advocacy matter.

Understanding your body, building a supportive medical team, and connecting with other women living with endometriosis can make navigating the condition easier.

Whether it’s endometriosis or another condition, your symptoms deserve attention, answers and support.

And if you’re currently living with endometriosis:

Comfort matters.
Feeling supported matters.
And knowing you’re not alone matters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Endometriosis

What are the first signs of endometriosis?

Common early signs of endometriosis include severe period pain, pelvic pain outside of your period, heavy bleeding, bloating, fatigue and pain during sex. Symptoms often begin during teenage years but may not be recognised as endometriosis until later.

How is endometriosis diagnosed in Australia?

Diagnosis usually begins with a GP appointment. Doctors may recommend pelvic ultrasounds, MRI scans or referral to a gynaecologist. In some cases, laparoscopic surgery may be used to confirm the diagnosis. New diagnostic pathways in Australia aim to reduce delays and improve early detection.

How common is endometriosis?

Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 7 women and girls in Australia. It is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting women of reproductive age.

Can endometriosis be cured?

There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include hormonal therapy, pain management, pelvic physiotherapy and surgery in some cases.

At what age does endometriosis start?

Endometriosis symptoms often begin during teenage years, sometimes soon after the first period. However, diagnosis can take several years due to lack of awareness and overlapping symptoms with other conditions.

Where can I get help for endometriosis in Australia?

Support organisations such as Endometriosis Australia, QENDO and Jean Hailes Women's Health provide education, resources and community support. Australia also has specialised endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics funded by the government to improve diagnosis and treatment.