A new study by Endometriosis UK reveals that women in the UK are waiting an average of eight years and ten months for an endometriosis diagnosis, an increase of ten months since 2020. The survey of 4,371 diagnosed individuals found that 47% visited their GP ten or more times before receiving a diagnosis, and 70% visited five times or more.
Emma Cox, chief executive of Endometriosis UK, called the delays unacceptable, stating: 'Our finding that it now takes even longer to get a diagnosis of endometriosis must be a wake-up call to decision-makers to stop minimising or ignoring the significant impact endometriosis can have on both physical and mental health.' The condition, which affects around one in ten women of child-bearing age, involves tissue similar to the womb lining growing elsewhere, causing painful symptoms and potentially affecting fertility.
The report highlights that only 10% of respondents said GPs suspected endometriosis at their first or second appointment. More than half had visited A&E at least once, with 17% of those referred to gynaecology at their first visit. Patients reported being dismissed, with one told symptoms were 'due to stress and tiredness' and another told she was 'being dramatic' as a teenager.
Maria Caulfield, minister for the women’s health strategy, acknowledged: 'More must be done to improve women’s experiences of the healthcare system... Endometriosis is a priority area within our strategy.' However, diagnosis remains challenging as it can only be confirmed via laparoscopy, and symptoms vary. Endometriosis UK is calling for a target of one year or less for diagnosis by 2030.
