Endometriosis is one of the most common chronic conditions in Australia, affecting 1 in 7 women. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus.
Even though many people have endometriosis, it’s not well-studied and is often missed in people who have it. This leads to a lower quality of life and less medical help. During Endometriosis Month, we asked the community to share their experiences with endometriosis care in the ACT and their suggestions for how it can be improved.
Thank you to those who took part in our survey!
Our survey results showed that half the people who responded who live with endometriosis felt they could access the right health care to manage their symptoms, but for some it took a long time to get the care they needed. People told us they found these services helpful: QENDO Support groups, community dietitians and pelvic physios. Those who couldn’t find suitable health care said they didn’t know where to go for help and felt unsupported, or they told us services were too expensive and there was low availability of appointments.
People suggested that to improve endometriosis care, more funding for endometriosis services and support groups is needed in the ACT. In addition, more training for health workers in both public and private health care was suggested to increase the number of specialists who can diagnose and treat the condition which may reduce wait times.
These insights have helped CHN gain a better understanding of endometriosis care in the ACT and found areas for improvement that will contribute to CHN’s future work.
If you are living with symptoms of endometriosis, the ACT Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis Clinic can support you to receive appropriate and timely care. Read more about this service below.
Visit Endometriosis Australia to learn how you can get involved orhelp people living with endometriosis.
