Endometriosis is a common yet frequently under-recognised chronic disease. Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to those that line a woman’s uterus grow in other parts of her body, usually around the pelvis, and less commonly in tissues and organs outside the pelvic cavity. Endometriosis is a highly individualised disease, with the symptoms and impact of the disease ranging significantly from person to person. Some people have very little pain or other common symptoms, and others have reoccurring symptoms that impact on a daily basis. Once diagnosed, many people will have endometriosis effectively managed, although in many cases it can lead to debilitating long-term chronic pain, symptom recurrence, compromised fertility and sexual function.

There is growing recognition within Australia of the need for improved awareness, education, diagnosis,
treatment and research into endometriosis and associated chronic pelvic pain. This plan has emerged from the combined efforts of patients, advocacy groups, clinicians, researchers and parliamentarians to have endometriosis acknowledged as a chronic condition and a substantial health burden in Australia.

The plan aims to improve:

• public awareness of endometriosis
• patients’ understanding of the condition
• treatment options
• research programs into endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain

The plan’s goals are to improve the quality of life for women living with endometriosis and reduce the burden of disease for individuals and for the nation.