5 September 2019

New endometriosis report raises awareness about this common, yet under-recognised condition

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Queensland Fertility Group

QFG welcomes a newly published endometriosis report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) as it helps raise awareness about this common, but under-recognised condition.

The report is important as it’s the first national endometriosis report about this widespread and often painful condition affecting women of reproductive age, especially women over 30 who have not yet had children.

The report shows that:

  • 1 in 9 Australian women aged 40–44 have endometriosis.
  • Affecting 7% of women aged 25–29 and 11% of women aged 40–44

Dr David Molloy, a world-leading gynaecological and fertility specialist from QFG said the numbers are high but wants to reassure women that endometriosis can be managed throughout your reproductive life.  

“Endometriosis can impact women’s lives in many ways causing physical pain and emotional stress. The report includes the most recent estimates on endometriosis-related hospital admissions, demonstrating the severity of this crippling condition,” said Dr Molloy. 

The report data shows there were around 34,000 endometriosis-related hospitalisations, 95% of which involved at least 1 procedure.

Endometriosis causes pain, intercourse pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, bowel disturbance, and fatigue especially in young women. It also impacts women’s fertility. Severe degrees of endometriosis will have an impact on your ability to conceive naturally.

Dr Molloy said fortunately there are many treatments for endometriosis, including pain medication, exercise and living a healthy lifestyle for mild endometriosis through to medication and laparoscopic surgery for severe cases.

“Early diagnosis in your twenties and thirties often by laparoscopic surgery means the gynaecological impacts can be managed and then long term plans for fertility and lifestyle management can be provided.

“A woman with endometriosis can go on to have a family on her own, or with some fertility support. Difficulty becoming pregnant is increased with a diagnosis of endometriosis. However many women, especially with milder levels of the disease will have little problem. Less often treatment with IUI or IVF may be required, especially for higher level disease,” explains Dr Molloy.

If you are struggling with the symptoms of endometriosis including pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse and bleeding between periods or have been diagnosed with endo and have been trying to start a family without success, contact your doctor or one of the fertility specialist at QFG on 1800 111 483.

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