A Tasmanian woman, Hannah Moore, endured a 14-year journey of misdiagnosis before finally receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis, a condition that has significantly impacted her life and financial stability. Throughout this period, she spent nearly $50,000 in attempts to manage her symptoms, which have left her struggling with debilitating pain and the challenges of daily life.
According to Vanessa Cahoon, chief executive of the Clifford Craig Foundation, endometriosis is a condition that affects approximately one in seven women in Australia. Cahoon described it as “under-diagnosed, under-treated, and misunderstood,” emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for those affected. The symptoms can vary widely, often causing severe disruptions to daily activities and overall quality of life.
Moore’s ordeal began when she experienced extreme menstrual pain at the age of just nine. She vividly recalls the moment, stating, “I basically hemorrhaged onto the bathroom floor.” While her stepmother dismissed this as a normal part of womanhood, her mother sought medical assistance, leading to a series of treatments that included being prescribed the contraceptive pill for eight years. This treatment led to severe mood swings and emotional distress, including aggression and depression, which Moore later attributed to the hormonal effects of the medication.
In her quest for relief, Moore tried an array of treatments, including 17 different combination pills, three types of IUDs, and other hormonal therapies. It was not until 2023 that she compiled a comprehensive list of her symptoms, medications, and medical consultations, presenting this information to a gynaecologist in Hobart. This led to a laparoscopic surgery, the only definitive method for diagnosing endometriosis, costing her an additional $10,000.
Reflecting on her financial burden, Moore noted, “That was all of my savings, in my first year of work.” To date, she estimates her total expenditure for managing the condition at around $50,000. This figure excludes the costs associated with lost work hours, as Moore often struggles to maintain consistent employment due to her symptoms.
Working as a healthcare professional, she faces unique challenges. Certain medications that alleviate her pain are not subsidised, and she often must choose between taking effective pain relief and maintaining her ability to work effectively. “I could be scrubbed, sterile, doing a procedure and I will bleed through a max tampon, a maternity pad and my pants,” she explained, illustrating the severe impact of her condition on her professional life.
To manage her symptoms, Moore is currently in a medically induced menopause, which has alleviated her periods but introduced new challenges, including hot flashes and insomnia. Despite these ongoing difficulties, Cahoon believes there is hope for improved treatment options. “We’ve seen more research, development of national and state-wide strategies, increased awareness, and even new technology that’s improving the treatment and recovery for women,” she stated.
In response to the pressing need for better support, Bridget Archer, Tasmania’s Health Minister, announced a commitment of $1.2 million to enhance awareness, diagnosis, and treatment for women suffering from endometriosis. Archer emphasized that improving the health and well-being of women and girls across Tasmania remains a priority for her government.
Innovative technologies, such as the new surgical robot at the Launceston General Hospital, are expected to enhance care options for women facing similar challenges. As awareness of endometriosis grows, advocates hope that more women will receive timely diagnoses and effective treatment, preventing the lengthy struggles faced by individuals like Hannah Moore.
