Diagnosed with stage four endometriosis after misdiagnoses, dismissals, and ineffective treatments, Juliet Oliver knows the realities of living with chronic pain.
When she turned 30, her health took a nosedive.
“My body waged war on itself — nutrient deficiencies, adrenal fatigue, chronic gut dysbiosis, inflammation, and estrogen dominance,” she writes, “all painting a picture of a body and spirit on the brink.”
But as an engineer, her career also came knocking, and in the midst of burnout and at the height of her endometriosis journey, she knew she had to do something.
Endometriosis is a condition that affects up to 10% of women between the ages of 15 and 44, according to John Hopkins Medicine.
The uterus is lined with endometrial tissue called the endometrium. Every time a person with a uterus menstruates, they grow a new endometrium — and endometriosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus.
In addition to causing debilitating periods, increased risk of infertility, and a wide range of symptoms that impact one’s quality of life, endometriosis also has a reputation for being misdiagnosed or not taken seriously in the medical community.
“It is too often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and mistreated,” Oliver said in a statement. “This leaves millions trapped in debilitating pain, facing long wait times or no help at all.”
Oliver’s pain wasn’t just her own; it was something she shared with countless others.
“As an engineer, I was built to solve problems,” she said.
And that’s when she embarked on creating her app: Endo45.
The app was developed to help “endometriosis warriors,” as community members refer to themselves, through practical support, symptom tracking, and evidence-based features.
It offers tailored action plans to users, focusing on four main pain points: Immune, gut, nervous, and hepatic system dysfunction.
Endo45 includes features to track one’s care, build habits, and offer proven methods to reduce symptoms. The information shared on the app is backed by professionals including a gynecologist, clinical neuropathologist, and fertility specialist.
“I refused to accept that living in pain was my only option,” Oliver said in a statement. “I wanted to create something practical, evidence-based, and accessible for everyone facing this disease.”
While Oliver is from New Zealand, the app has made its international debut, helping people across the world navigate their endometriosis journey with a little more support.
“We’re not just tracking symptoms, we’re laying out a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the complex terrains of endometriosis, both physically, mentally, and spiritually,” Oliver told Women’s Agenda. “Our mission is simple: Create a world where endometriosis is understood, managed, and doesn’t hold you back.”
Another main feature on the app is an “EndoFit” score that helps users understand and follow their progress, giving them data to be empowered in their self-care. According to the app’s website, “EndoFit,” is defined as “a state where endometriosis no longer dictates your life’s narrative.”
Treatment for the condition varies, though some scientific breakthroughs provide hope for the future. Oliver said she believes remission is possible, especially when people are given the tools and resources they need to thrive in the face of endometriosis.
“I want people to know that they can feel better than they do today,” she said. “With the right tools and mindset, we can outsmart this disease.”
Endo45 is available to use with a free trial in the App Store and Google Play.
Header images courtesy of Endo45
