The NHS has been urged to add endometriosis to the list of conditions qualifying for free prescriptions. Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth of reproductive age in the UK.
Endometriosis prevalence
Globally, 10% of women have endometriosis, equating to 176 million people worldwide. In the UK, around 1.5 million women and those assigned female at birth are affected, a number similar to diabetes cases, according to Endometriosis UK.
Petition demands change
A petition launched by Sophie Stock, backed by dozens of supporters, calls on the Labour Party government to "Add Endometriosis to NHS Medical Exemption List for Free Prescriptions." The petition states: "We want the Government to add endometriosis to the list of qualifying long-term medical conditions that entitle patients in England to Medical Exemption for free NHS prescriptions."
Endometriosis is a recognised incurable chronic inflammatory condition requiring lifelong medical treatment. The petition highlights that "women and people with endometriosis often require lifelong or long-term prescription medication to manage an incurable chronic disease, including hormone suppression, pain relief, bladder medication, bowel medication and treatment for related complications."
Despite this, endometriosis is not currently recognised as a qualifying condition for an NHS Medical Exemption Certificate, meaning many sufferers must pay prescription charges indefinitely simply to manage a disease that cannot be cured.
Next steps for the petition
The petition is open for signatures until 3 December 2026. If it reaches 10,000 signatures, the government will respond. If it reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.
Current prescription charges
Most adults in England must pay for prescriptions, with the NHS prescription charge typically £9.90 per item. Some items, such as contraceptives, are free. People under 16 or over 60 automatically qualify for free prescriptions, but others may also qualify due to certain medical conditions or benefits.
