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A recent study by Endometriosis UK found that women wait an average of almost nine years for an endometriosis diagnosis. Since the pandemic, this delay has worsened. According to the research, 47% of women visited their GP ten or more times before receiving a diagnosis, while 70% attended at least five appointments. As a result, many women live with unmanaged pain for years before receiving appropriate care.
These delays highlight a serious and ongoing failure within women’s healthcare. Consequently, women often experience avoidable physical harm, emotional distress, and fertility complications.
Real Experiences of Delayed Endometriosis Diagnosis
BBC News has reported several cases that demonstrate the real impact of diagnostic delay.
Michelle Bates described repeated dismissal by medical professionals over many years. Reflecting on her experience, she said:
At one point, the pain became so severe that she collapsed at work. Following further investigation, an ultrasound, originally performed for suspected appendicitis, revealed three large cysts. One cyst measured 12cm and was attached to her ovary. Shortly after getting married, a surgeon told her she had the worst case of endometriosis they had ever seen.
Lowri Shepstone from Powys faced a similar struggle. In her case, diagnosis took 17 years. During her teenage years, her GP dismissed her symptoms as normal and recommended pain relief and the contraceptive pill. Eventually, when she received a diagnosis, she described feeling overwhelmed with emotion.
In addition, Ms Shepstone highlighted the impact of “endo belly.” This condition-related bloating can make women appear heavily pregnant. As a result, many women experience reduced confidence and social isolation.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which hormone-responsive tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus. Although the exact cause remains unknown, the condition can worsen over time.
In the UK:
- Approximately 10.5 million women are aged between 15 and 45
- Around 3% of women have endometriosis
- Between 5% and 30% develop severe disease
Importantly, severe endometriosis can cause long-term pain, organ damage, and fertility problems.
Common Symptoms of Endometriosis
Symptoms vary between individuals. However, many women experience similar issues, including:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Severe period pain that limits daily activities
- Pain during urination or bowel movements
- Nausea
- Constipation or diarrhoea
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, healthcare professionals may misdiagnose or dismiss them. Consequently, diagnosis is often delayed.
Why Early Diagnosis of Endometriosis Matters
Endometriosis UK stresses the importance of early diagnosis. Without timely treatment, the condition may progress and cause more serious harm.
Moreover, delayed diagnosis can:
- Increase pain severity
- Cause damage to pelvic organs
- Limit fertility options
- Affect mental health and wellbeing
For these reasons, the charity describes current diagnostic delays as unacceptable.
Treatment Options for Moderate and Severe Endometriosis
reatment for severe endometriosis forms part of the Government’s Women’s Health Strategy, introduced in 2022. Under this strategy, eligible patients should receive access to specialist care.
Available treatment options include:
- Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) to remove or destroy endometriosis tissue
- Hormonal treatments to manage symptoms
- Hysterectomy, sometimes including removal of the ovaries, in severe cases
Crucially, earlier diagnosis may reduce the need for invasive surgery or delay its necessity.
When Delayed Diagnosis May Amount to Medical Negligence
In some cases, delayed diagnosis may amount to medical negligence. This may occur where healthcare professionals fail to investigate symptoms, dismiss pain, or delay referral to specialists.
Therefore, seeking early legal advice is important. A specialist medical negligence solicitor can:
- Review your medical care
- Obtain expert evidence
- Advise whether negligence occurred
- Guide you through the claims process
Taking prompt action can protect your legal rights and improve the chances of a successful claim.
Speak to a Women’s Health Negligence Specialist
Our team has decades of combined experience representing clients in women’s health and endometriosis negligence claims. Above all, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial impact delayed diagnosis can cause.
If you would like to discuss your situation, please contact us to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation. We are available by phone or email and are here to help.
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