One in seven Australian women live with endometriosis. If you, your loved ones or clients are among them, then you know just how hard it can be to get the answers you need. Endometriosis can affect body image, sex life, fertility and family planning. The daily pain experienced by many women can even stop them from fully participating in the life they choose to lead. It impacts study, work and economic security along with the mental health and emotional well-being of those living with it.
Through her experience as a Mum, Aunt and friend of 'endo warriors’, Maree Davenport wrote 'The Australian Guide to Living Well with Endometriosis' to signpost the endometriosis journey. It includes advice and insights from eminent GPs, gynaecologists, fertility specialists, physiotherapists, osteopaths, the lived experience of a number of prominent Aussie women, along with insights from politicians about gender health challenges and medical misogyny.
AAPi asked Maree to discuss her book, the holistic management of the disease, particularly from a mental health perspective, and the role psychologists can play, including:
- Some common misconceptions about endometriosis and how psychologists might be able to dispel these myths within their practices and communities
- How the experience of diagnostic delays, uncertainty and the struggle for validation contributes to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges
- Effective coping mechanisms to help address the challenges endometriosis can impart on relationships, social lives, and overall quality of life
- Practical and evidence-based strategies that psychologists can use to support women+ in managing the pain, fatigue, and emotional distress associated with endometriosis
About our presenter: Maree Davenport
An advocacy specialist and former Member of Parliament, Maree Davenport has earned a Master of Leadership and is experienced in gender equality action plans, as well as workplace and wellness disputes. She has held CEO and C-Suite roles across many commercial and industrial sectors, in-house, interim and in consulting capacities and is known for her diligence and persistence in delivering tangible outcomes.
A Member of Chief Executive Women (CEW), UN Women Australia, Women Sport Australia, Women on Boards, and the Victorian Women's Trust, National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Women in Public Health, Maree is a strong advocate for women’s health and wellbeing at every age and stage.
Maree is Advocacy Advisor to the Australian Endometriosis Coalition and serves on the Board of St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research Foundation and Her Place Women's Museum Australia. She has been an Ambassador for Carlton Football Club since 2013, and is an Ambassador for the Housing Industry Association (HIA) Building Women.
A published author, her book The Australian Guide to Living Well with Endometriosis was released in March 2025. Maree was on the World Congress on Endometriosis Sydney 2025 organising committee, chairing the Patient Liaison Committee and previously the Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the women's health charity Endometriosis Australia.
Webinar timing: 7:00 – 8:00 pm AEST
Access to the recording of this webinar: A recording of this webinar will be available through the CPD Webinar Library, but for the best experience and the opportunity to ask your questions, join us live. Everyone who registers will be advised via email as soon as the recording is available. Members have unlimited access to the recording, and non-members will have access for 6 months.