Women’s health and endometriosis in Australia

Reports regarding women’s health in Australia highlight significant challenges related to mental health and reproductive conditions. Data indicates that over half of Australian women struggle with mental health issues, with high rates of depression and anxiety reported among those with conditions such as endometriosis and polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).

Regarding endometriosis specifically, data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that hospitalisations for the condition have increased by 23% over the last decade, significantly outpacing the 5% increase in general female hospitalisations. In the 2024-2025 period, there were approximately 24,700 hospitalisations, with roughly 90% requiring surgical intervention or a medical procedure.

Regional challenges have emerged regarding access to care. In Canberra, patients face delayed diagnosis, gender bias, and fragmented care pathways. The Health Care Consumers’ Association (HCCA) noted that residents often deal with limited local specialist access, resulting in higher costs and the necessity of interstate travel for treatment. In response, the ACT Legislative Assembly has initiated an inquiry into endometriosis and pelvic pain conditions to address these systemic issues.

In New South Wales, the government has provided a $25,000 grant to the Australian Endometriosis Foundation to support the ‘Freezer Friends’ program. This fertility and health literacy initiative aims to provide evidence-based information to over 1,200 women to assist with decisions regarding reproductive health, family planning, and career timing.