Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. In Ireland, this issue impacts thousands of women who are professionally active and raising families. It is not surprising that questions increasingly arise about access to insurance and the terms of insurance for women with endometriosis. In this article, we will try to explain how the condition may influence an insurer’s decision and the level of the premium. From the perspective of a company offering life insurance, what matters is not only the diagnosis itself, but also its impact on life expectancy and overall health.            When a person with endometriosis applies for insurance in Ireland, a medical assessment process (underwriting) is carried out.

The insurer analyses:
• the year of diagnosis,
• the stage or severity of the condition,
• surgical history,
• stability of symptoms,
• length and frequency of absences from work,
• any other co-existing medical conditions

So, is insurance possible? In most cases – yes.

Endometriosis is generally not considered a life-shortening condition, therefore:
• in mild cases, insurance terms are usually offered on standard conditions,
• in moderate cases, a higher premium may apply,
• in severe cases, non-standard terms may be applied, also known as special conditions added to the insurance contract.

Declines are rare and usually relate to cases involving serious co-existing medical conditions. Every insurance application in Ireland, especially when disclosing a diagnosis of endometriosis, is assessed individually. Therefore, it is possible that two people with the same diagnosis may receive different terms.

Does a diagnosis of endometriosis disqualify you from serious illness cover?

Companies operating in the Irish market offer serious illness cover based on a defined list of medical conditions. In practice:
• endometriosis itself is not included on the list of conditions covered for payout in Ireland
• a payout can only be made if a specific medical definition outlined in the policy terms is met

Endometriosis and income protection?

In the case of income protection, risk is assessed differently because endometriosis may cause frequent inability to work. Possible outcomes include:
• exclusions relating to absences connected to the condition,
• a higher premium,
• an extended deferred (waiting) period.

Therefore, when choosing insurance, it is important to carefully review the terms of the contract.

How can you increase your chances of receiving more favourable insurance terms?

1. Disclose your full medical history.
2. Provide up-to-date treatment documentation.
3. Choose a policy tailored to your health and financial situation.

Transparency in the application process is essential, as failure to disclose relevant information may result in a future claim being declined.                                                                                                                                          In summary, endometriosis does not eliminate the possibility of obtaining life insurance as well as health insurance in Ireland.

In most cases:
• Insurance is available
• The premium may be standard or moderately increased
• The decision depends on the severity of the condition and how well it is managed

If you are considering insurance in Ireland and have been diagnosed with endometriosis, contact us to discuss your options and find the most suitable insurance cover for your needs. https://www.ubezpieczenianazycie.ie/…/life-insurance…/