Women’s Pain Inquiry: A Turning Point for Endometriosis and Female Health

Endometriosis Australia welcomes the findings of the Victorian Government’s landmark inquiry into women’s pain. For too long, women and those presumed female at birth have been told their pain is “normal,” dismissed, or left without answers.

Endometriosis Australia’s chair Monica Forlano urged governments and policymakers to act quickly on the report’s recommendations.

“This landmark report validates what millions of women have long known: our health system has failed to listen, invest and respond to the realities of female pain,” Ms Forlano said.

“The evidence is confronting, but it is also a powerful catalyst for change. We urge governments, clinicians and researchers to act swiftly on the recommendations—especially those addressing endometriosis, menstrual pain and systemic bias.

“Women deserve timely, compassionate, evidence-based care. Their pain is real, and their voices must shape the future of healthcare in Australia.”

Endometriosis Australia’s general manager Natalie Rupil said other states and territories in Australia should follow Victoria’s lead.

“Women’s pain isn’t an issue that affects only Victorians – it is a global issue,” Ms Rupil said. “We need all governments, key policymakers and health organisations to take women’s pain seriously.”

What the Inquiry Found

The inquiry revealed systemic failures in how women’s pain is understood and treated:

• Diagnostic delays: Conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis often take years to diagnose.
• Systemic bias: Women’s pain is frequently minimized or misattributed, leading to inadequate care.
• Underinvestment: Research and funding for female pain conditions remain disproportionately low.
• Impact on quality of life: Pain disrupts education, careers, relationships, and mental health.

These findings echo the lived experiences of millions of women across Australia.

Endometriosis in Focus

Endometriosis was highlighted as a priority area in the report. Key issues include:

• Delayed diagnosis: On average, it takes 6.5 years for women to receive a diagnosis.
• Limited treatment options: Many patients cycle through surgeries, medications, and lifestyle changes without long-term relief.
• Stigma and silence: Menstrual pain is still normalised, leaving women to suffer in silence.

This inquiry underscores the urgent need for timely, compassionate, evidence-based care.

Why This Matters Globally

While the inquiry is Victorian, its findings resonate worldwide:

• Universal bias: Women’s pain is under-researched across healthcare systems globally.
• Shared challenges: Diagnostic delays, stigma, and lack of investment are common in many countries.
• Catalyst for change: Australia’s leadership can inspire international reforms in women’s health.

What Needs to Happen Next

Endometriosis Australia urges swift action on the inquiry’s recommendations:

• Policy reform: Governments must prioritise female pain conditions in health strategies.
• Clinical training: Healthcare providers need education to recognise and respond to endometriosis and menstrual pain.
• Research investment: Funding must expand to include diverse populations and innovative treatments.
• Patient voices: Women’s lived experiences must shape the future of healthcare.