Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body. These areas most commonly develop around the pelvis, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lining of the pelvis, but can occasionally affect other organs.
This tissue responds to hormonal changes and can cause inflammation, pain, and other symptoms, particularly around the time of your period.
Common symptoms
Symptoms of endometriosis vary from person to person and can change over time. You may experience:
- Severe period pain that interferes with daily activities
- Heavy periods
- Ongoing pelvic or lower back pain
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain when passing urine or opening your bowels
- Fatigue or low energy
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Low mood or anxiety related to ongoing symptoms
Some people experience symptoms mainly during their period, while others have symptoms throughout the month.
Management and treatment
There is currently no cure for endometriosis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Options may include:
- Pain relief medication
- Hormonal treatments to reduce symptoms
- Surgical treatment in some cases
Treatment plans are individual and depend on symptoms, severity, and future fertility considerations.
Living with endometriosis
Endometriosis can have a significant physical and emotional impact. Many people find benefit from a combination of medical care, lifestyle support, and access to reliable information.
Support may include:
- Guidance on managing long-term pain and fatigue
- Fertility support where needed
- Emotional and mental health support
Symptoms often improve after menopause, although some people may continue to experience symptoms.
Support and Further Information
Support Groups
You may find additional support from specialist organisations and support groups, including:
- Endometriosis UK
- The Endometriosis Foundation
Connecting with others who understand the condition can be helpful alongside clinical care.
Your Health Approach
At Your Health, we aim to support patients through timely assessment, clear information, and specialist-led care. Our focus is on helping you understand your symptoms and guiding appropriate next steps with clarity and confidence.
Getting Diagnosed
Despite being a common condition, endometriosis is often difficult to diagnose. Many patients experience long delays between first seeking help and receiving a diagnosis.
In the UK, the average time to diagnosis is around 7–8 years, during which symptoms may be repeatedly overlooked or attributed to other causes.
These delays highlight the importance of timely assessment and access to clear, reliable diagnostic options earlier in the care pathway
Testing and diagnostic options
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, and no single test is suitable for every patient. Assessment often involves a combination of clinical history, imaging, and, in some cases, surgical investigation. Understanding the available options can help patients make informed decisions alongside their healthcare team.
1. Clinical assessment
Initial assessment typically involves a detailed discussion of symptoms, medical history, and how symptoms affect daily life. This helps guide decisions about further investigation and management.
2. Imaging
Ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to look for signs associated with endometriosis. While imaging can be helpful in some cases, it does not always detect all forms of the condition.
3. Surgical diagnosis
Laparoscopy has traditionally been used to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis. This is an invasive procedure and may not be appropriate or necessary for everyone, particularly early in the diagnostic pathway.
4. Non-invasive diagnostic testing
Advances in diagnostic testing have led to the development of non-invasive tests designed to detect biological markers associated with endometriosis, such as the Endosure test. These tests may help support earlier identification, reduce uncertainty, and inform next steps without the need for surgery.
Support with next steps
If endometriosis symptoms are affecting you, or you simply want clear answers, our team is here to help—book an appointment to explore diagnostics and the right next steps for your care.