Endometriosis affects a significant number of Australian women, both physically and financially.

The chronic condition affects nearly 1 million patients with its painful symptoms.

However, there's good news on the horizon for those bearing the burden of managing this condition.


The federal government recently announced that Visanne, a drug used to treat endometriosis, will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

Visanne would be the first endometriosis treatment to receive such support in three decades, making it a monumental step forward for women's health.

A year's supply of Visanne, generic name dienogest, would be reduced from over $800 to $380.

Pensioners and concession card holders may avail Visanne for around $90.


This change could bring financial relief and hope for consistent treatment.

Visanne releases a hormone that inhibits ovulation and menstruation.

This then shrinks and suppresses the growth of abnormal tissue connected to endometriosis.

Visanne works for over 80 per cent of women and can be used as long-term medication with few side effects.

Despite its prevalence and impact, an endometriosis diagnosis often takes over six years due to a lack of awareness and understanding from both patients and healthcare professionals.


Health Minister Mark Butler announced the addition of Visanne at St Andrews Hospital in Adelaide.

Minister Butler emphasised the significant impact endometriosis has on women's lives.

'This is a condition that impacts more than a million women. Maybe one in seven women and teenage girls, and for too long, too many women have been made to suffer in silence,' he stated.

Adding Visanne to the PBS acknowledged the need for affordable and accessible treatment options.

Gynaecologist Dr Neisha Wratten highlighted the number of women forced to decline the treatment.

'It has been a relief and a satisfaction to be able to offer to women a well-tolerated and highly efficacious treatment that relieves their pain, returns them to an excellent quality of life, and reduces the need for repeated surgeries,' Dr Wratten shared.

Dr Wratten believed this could have a positive impact on Australian women and their support networks.


Lauren Jeffries, an endometriosis patient who has been using Visanne for years, attested to the life-changing benefits of the drug.

'When I got put on Visanne about seven or eight years ago, it completely changed my life,' Ms Jeffries shared.

'Some days, I even forget that I have it. I can live a normal life.'

The reduced cost will alleviate the patient's financial strain and also symbolise hope for many women living with endometriosis.

Syl Freedman, the co-founder of endometriosis awareness group EndoActive, also welcomed the decision.

'Anything we can do to lower the cost of endo, not just for individuals but for the Australian economy, would be beneficial,' Ms Freedman stated.

The PBS listing of Visanne was a step in the right direction, but it also became a call to action for progress in women's health.
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