Endometriosis test plans welcomed but more to be done, groups say
The UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has introduced draft guidance for two new non-invasive diagnostic tests for endometriosis. Patients and advocacy groups welcome the move, noting that current diagnostic delays often lead to years of suffering and mismanaged care.
Why it matters
Endometriosis affects one in ten women, and these tests could significantly reduce the time to diagnosis, which currently takes years for many patients.
Image source, Abbie Filer Image caption, Abbie Filer from Leeds was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2024
"With endometriosis, most people end up minimising their pain, gaslighting themselves so they don't reach out for help," Abbie Filer explains.
"The onus shouldn't be on them to display their symptoms in an acceptable way - patients already do so much to manage their health and push for the right care."
The 27-year-old from Leeds was diagnosed with endometriosis 2024.
The condition - which affects one in 10 women and people assigned female at birth in the UK - is when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it.
It can cause severe and debilitating symptoms , external such as pelvic pain, heavy periods, fatigue and infertility.
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