From December 1, the almost 1 million Australians living with endometriosis will have access to a new drug, Visanne, through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making this essential treatment more affordable for many. This daily tablet containing the progestogen hormone dienogest, helps to manage the symptoms of endometriosis by preventing ovulation and menstruation, thereby shrinking and suppressing the growth of abnormal tissue.

This long-awaited subsidy will significantly reduce the cost, from over $800 per year to just $90 annually for pension and concession card holders, and $380 for general patients.

Professor Jason Abbott, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the University of NSW, joined EndoActive and Bayer in welcoming the subsidy. He prefaced the rise in hospital admissions due to endometriosis over the past decade, with more than 40,000 hospitalisations each year.

“Subsidised access to this medicine will be very welcome news for a large number of women living with this invisible disease,” said Professor Abbott. “Endometriosis can last for decades, and there is no cure. Access to affordable treatments that help control symptoms is crucial for a patient’s quality of life, especially after surgery when ongoing medication is often necessary to manage pain and other issues that can affect work, school, and social participation.”

Endometriosis causes tissue similar to the lining of the womb to grow in other parts of the body

Endometriosis is a chronic, debilitating condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the womb, often affecting the reproductive organs, bowel, and bladder. The condition causes inflammation, scarring, and painful adhesions, which can severely impact daily life.

Despite its prevalence, endometriosis remains widely misunderstood. Around 1 in 7 women and teens are affected by the condition, yet it often takes over six years to receive a proper diagnosis. It's also important to understand the significant cost of being officially diagnosed with endo. A laparoscopy across both private and public systems can be anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000, without factoring in the time needed to be excused from work, finding child care and other responsibilities one may have. 

Lesley Freedman, Co-founder of EndoActive, explained that delays in diagnosis are often due to a lack of awareness, both among patients and healthcare professionals.

“Misconceptions about endometriosis being just period pain or a matter of pain threshold undermine the experiences of those affected,” said Freedman, whose daughter, Syl Freedman, was diagnosed at 21 after suffering from chronic pelvic pain for 10 years.

In addition to chronic pain, patients may also experience heavy periods, fatigue, and fertility challenges. Around 30% of women undergoing IVF have endometriosis, and half of all patients with the condition experience infertility.

Syl Freedman, Co-founder of EndoActive, expressed her gratitude for the new subsidy “This is wonderful news for endometriosis patients. We commend the Federal Government for supporting Australians living with endo.” She added that access to affordable treatment is essential, as endometriosis affects many aspects of life, including employment, relationships, physical and mental health.

“Endo remains taboo and continues to be shrouded in mystery,” Syl added. “Although awareness has improved, there are still significant gaps. We need ongoing education and support to ensure women are not continuing to suffer in silence.”

Manoj Saxena, CEO of Bayer ANZ, applauded the government’s decision to list Visanne on the PBS. “Efforts by organisations like EndoActive have been pivotal in raising awareness of endometriosis and putting the disease at the top of the government’s agenda,” Saxena said. “The PBS listing is an important step towards addressing inequalities in women’s health access. Bayer is proud to have played a role in this achievement and remains committed to partnering with patient groups and the government to meet reproductive health needs.”

As with all medications, the drug may have side effects. The most common include headache, breast discomfort, depressed mood, and acne. It should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or by individuals with certain medical conditions, such as clotting disorders or a history of cardiovascular disease. Patients should consult their doctor to discuss any concerns and determine the most appropriate treatment.

EndoActive is a Not-For-Profit Health Promotion Charity founded in 2014 by Lesley and Syl Freedman. The organisation’s mission is to raise awareness, provide information, and advocate for better treatment options for women, girls, and people assigned female at birth with endometriosis. EndoActive also works to promote early intervention and informed treatment, drawing from evidence-based research to address the significant gaps in understanding and care for endometriosis.

Bayer, a life sciences company with a 150-year history, has been present in Australia since 1925. With a focus on health and agriculture, Bayer continues to address some of the greatest challenges of our time, from climate change to improving health outcomes. The company has been a leader in women’s health, from the launch of its first oral contraceptive over 60 years ago to its continued work in areas like endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, menopause, and pregnancy nutrition.

Bayer is committed to advancing sustainable development, particularly in empowering women and girls through access to reproductive health and family planning.