The Tasmanian Government is recognizing Endometriosis Awareness Month and acknowledging the challenges faced by Tasmanian girls and women living with endometriosis—a painful and often debilitating condition that greatly affects their daily lives.
Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, emphasized that endometriosis impacts approximately 1 million girls and women across Australia. On average, it takes 6.5 years for a diagnosis to be made.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus, often affecting other parts of the body. Common symptoms include severe pelvic pain, fatigue, heavy or irregular bleeding, and infertility. Many women with endometriosis also experience anxiety and depression.
“The impact of this insidious disease can be devastating, from intense pain to infertility,” said Minister Petrusma. “That’s why it’s critical that we raise awareness and offer support to women suffering from endometriosis.”
Through the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, the government is committed to ensuring Tasmanian women and girls with endometriosis have access to timely, affordable care.
To further support this initiative, the government is investing $1.2 million into awareness campaigns, diagnosis, and treatment improvements within the public health system. Additionally, a new $4.7 million surgical robot will aid in treatment.
“This investment is aimed at educating both clinicians and the public, ensuring better understanding of the significant impact of this chronic condition on many Tasmanian women,” Minister Petrusma said.
She also stressed that painful and irregular menstruation, which disrupts daily life, is not normal and requires medical assistance, often from a GP or specialists such as gynecologists.
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