Taranaki Engineer Launches App to Support Endometriosis Patients

A New Plymouth engineer has developed a pioneering app aimed at assisting individuals suffering from endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting approximately 120,000 women in New Zealand. Juliet Oliver, co-founder of Endo45, created the application to provide expert advice, lifestyle tips, and personalized plans to help users manage their symptoms and track their progress.

Oliver’s journey began with her own struggles with endometriosis, which she was diagnosed with later in life. Her symptoms included severe pain, extreme fatigue, and bloating, which significantly impacted her professional career in the energy sector. While managing a major project, Oliver faced the prospect of abandoning her job due to the debilitating effects of the condition.

From Personal Struggles to Innovative Solutions

After coming off a contraceptive pill that had masked her symptoms, Oliver found herself in a challenging situation. “My life spiralled rapidly,” she recalled, describing her experience of daily pain and overwhelming fatigue. Encouraged by her business partner, Justin Post, Oliver chose to “engineer a solution” rather than give up.

Determined to understand her body, Oliver consulted numerous specialists, exhausting her health insurance in the process. Initially misdiagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, she eventually sought advice from a leading specialist who quickly identified her condition as stage four endometriosis. Following surgery, she committed to experimenting with lifestyle and dietary changes, viewing herself as a “guinea pig” in her quest for relief.

Creating a Community Resource

As Oliver researched endometriosis more extensively, she recognized the need for a comprehensive source of information to empower others facing similar challenges. This insight led to the development of the Endo45 app, which officially launched in March 2024. The app has since gained traction, with approximately 50,000 downloads and around 5,000 active global users daily.

Operating from a combined office and laundry space in her home, Oliver has transitioned to running the app as her full-time job. Currently, a crowdfunding campaign on PledgeMe aims to raise funds to enhance the app and increase community awareness about endometriosis, particularly in educational and workplace settings. Oliver hopes to double the user base to 100,000 by the end of next year.

Despite the challenges of leaving her previous high-flying career, where she led a team of 50, Oliver emphasizes the fulfillment she finds in her new venture. “It’s been a heck of a journey but a deeply rewarding one,” she remarked, reflecting on her transformative experience and commitment to supporting others with endometriosis.