Endometriosis News Around the World:
Updated: Oct 1
How Canada Compares to Australia, the UK, Portugal, and France
As the conversation around endometriosis grows louder globally, several countries have made important strides in policy, awareness, and research. From national action plans to school-based education, nations like Australia, the UK, Portugal, and France are stepping up. But how does Canada compare?
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening internationally, and what we can learn.
Australia: Leading with a National Action Plan
Australia is widely considered a global leader in endometriosis policy. In 2018, it became the first country to launch a National Action Plan for Endometriosis, backed by federal funding. The plan includes:
National awareness campaigns
Improved training for general practitioners
Research funding and patient-centred care models
School education to help youth recognize symptoms early
In 2022, Australia also opened Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics in every state and territory, publicly funded and multidisciplinary. These efforts are already improving early diagnosis and reducing stigma.
United Kingdom: Focus on Diagnosis and Awareness
The UK launched its Women’s Health Strategy in 2022, recognizing endometriosis as a public health issue. Key actions include:
Reducing the average 8-year diagnosis delay
Mandatory menstrual health education in schools
A national endometriosis research strategy through the NIHR
Guidelines for better care pathways in the NHS
While challenges remain, particularly in wait times and access to excision surgery, the policy framework is advancing.
Portugal: Free Surgery and Holistic Support
Portugal made headlines in 2023 when its public healthcare system began offering free endometriosis surgery through specially trained teams. Other highlights:
The government supports mental health care for those with chronic pelvic pain
Several hospitals now run endo-specific clinics, offering dietitian, pain management, and fertility services under one roof
Portugal’s model emphasizes holistic care, especially in public hospitals, where financial barriers are reduced.
France: Endometriosis as a National Priority
In 2022, France launched a National Strategy to Fight Endometriosis, aiming for better detection and improved care. The government’s plan includes:
Creating referral centres for complex cases
Improving medical education and public understanding
Funding endometriosis research
Developing workplace support measures for affected people
France has also piloted school workshops to teach teens about menstrual and pelvic pain—helping to address stigma early.
Where Does Canada Stand?
Canada has no national strategy for endometriosis. Patients often face:
Long wait times to see specialists
A shortage of advanced excision surgeons
Minimal training for general practitioners on endometriosis
No national public awareness campaign
Limited support for youth or workplace accommodations
While some provinces have begun to acknowledge the burden of endometriosis, most care remains fragmented and inconsistent. Patients often travel across the country, or even abroad, for timely, expert care.
What Canada Can Learn
Other countries show that real change is possible when endometriosis is treated as a public health issue. Canada could benefit from:
A national action plan rooted in education, access, and equity
Greater investment in surgical training and specialized clinics
Public campaigns to destigmatize menstrual health
Resources tailored to young people, families, and marginalized communities
Our children need our help. They need us to push for better care and recognition. At Endometriosis Canada, we’re calling on our federal and provincial governments to follow the global lead and make meaningful change, starting with a national strategy.
Want to help? Join our advocacy efforts and share this article to keep the conversation going. Because our pain is real, and we deserve better.
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