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Untreated Painful Periods Cost Australia's Economy $14.2 Billion Annually


A new study reveals that nearly four in five Australian women have experienced chronic menstrual symptoms in the last five years, with almost half of them forced to miss work or study due to painful periods.


According to the findings of the Jean Hailes National Women’s Health Survey, the economic impact of these symptoms—such as missed workdays and reduced productivity—is estimated at $14.2 billion per year, or approximately $5,005 per person. This figure does not include the additional out-of-pocket healthcare expenses women incur while managing these issues.


The survey gathered responses from over 1,200 Australian women aged 18 to 44, who were asked about their experiences with heavy, painful, or irregular periods.


Of the 77% of women reporting menstrual symptoms, 70% said it made it difficult to work or study, and 44% said they missed days of work or study.

Despite this, the economic and social impact of severe menstrual symptoms remains underreported in Australia—a gap researchers aim to address. Professor Susan Davis, an endocrinologist and leader of the Women’s Health Research Program at Monash University, noted that the latest study's findings align with another 2023 study showing that women with painful periods are 50% more likely to experience reduced workability and twice as likely to take more than 10 sick days per year.


“Both sets of data show consistent results,” Professor Davis told ABC.


She explained that endometriosis and adenomyosis are the leading causes of painful periods and heavy bleeding, though many women remain undiagnosed. “Women shouldn’t have to endure these symptoms even without a diagnosis. There are management options available, and if your doctor doesn’t listen, seek a second opinion,” she said.


Endometriosis affects approximately one in seven women in Australia, while adenomyosis—where endometrial tissue grows within the uterine wall—affects one in five individuals assigned female at birth.


While awareness of the challenges of perimenopause and menopause has grown, Professor Davis stressed the need for continued research and advocacy surrounding painful menstruation. “Twenty-eight percent of women report moderate to severe menopause symptoms, but the number of women experiencing significant period pain is even higher,” she added.


Professor Gita Mishra, director of the University of Queensland’s Australian Women and Girls’ Health Research Centre, found that 44% of women experiencing painful periods did not discuss their symptoms with a doctor. “Many didn’t think their issue was severe enough to address,” she said, emphasising the need for more research into the specific menstrual experiences of First Nations women and those from culturally diverse backgrounds.


“In some cultures, menstruation is considered taboo, and understanding this cultural context is vital if we are to improve care for all women,” she explained.


Professor Mishra also contributed to a study highlighting the significant strain endometriosis places on Australia’s healthcare system. “This chronic condition leads to frequent hospitalisations and extended stays, demonstrating the immense burden on both patients and healthcare providers,” she noted. “More research is crucial to develop effective, targeted interventions.”

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