Endometriosis is a debilitating and frequently misunderstood gynaecological condition that affects tissue similar to the lining of the uterus. Despite impacting around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, healthcare professionals often dismiss or overlook its symptoms. As a result, many women experience delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and avoidable harm.
Failures in diagnosing and managing endometriosis form the basis of many medical negligence claims, particularly where delays worsen symptoms or lead to long-term complications.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the womb. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes, often causing:
Although endometriosis is common, clinicians frequently misdiagnose it as normal menstrual pain or other conditions. This lack of awareness often delays treatment and allows the disease to progress.
Delayed diagnosis is one of the most common issues in endometriosis negligence claims. Many women report that doctors:
Women often seek multiple medical opinions before receiving an accurate diagnosis. On average, endometriosis diagnosis can take years, during which symptoms frequently worsen.
Untreated endometriosis can progress and cause:
The prolonged uncertainty surrounding symptoms also affects mental health. Many women experience anxiety, depression, frustration, and isolation after years of feeling unheard or disbelieved by medical professionals.
Endometriosis symptoms are often invisible, making them difficult for others to understand. This lack of visibility, combined with stigma around reproductive health, can place strain on:
When partners, employers, or loved ones underestimate the severity of symptoms, women may feel isolated or unsupported. This isolation can significantly worsen mental health outcomes.
Endometriosis negligence claims often involve healthcare professionals who:
In many cases, doctors rely on pain management alone rather than addressing the underlying condition.
Negligence does not always stop at diagnosis. Some patients experience:
The absence of a consistent, standardised approach to endometriosis treatment leads to wide variations in care and leaves many patients without adequate support.
If you believe negligent medical care has delayed your diagnosis or worsened your endometriosis, you may have grounds for a medical negligence claim.
A solicitor specialising in medical negligence can assess whether your care fell below acceptable standards and advise whether you have a valid claim.
You should collect medical records, test results, referral letters, and any correspondence with healthcare providers.
Healthcare professionals owe patients a legal duty of care. This is usually straightforward to establish.
You must show that the clinician acted below the standard expected of a competent medical professional when diagnosing or treating endometriosis.
You must demonstrate that the breach directly caused harm, such as disease progression, increased pain, or fertility issues. Expert medical evidence often supports this stage.
Compensation may cover:
Medical negligence claims can be complex, so early legal advice is essential.
Our Medical Negligence Specialists at NJS Law have decades of combined experience representing clients in endometriosis and gynaecological negligence claims.
We offer:
If you would like to discuss concerns about your endometriosis care, please contact us by phone or email. We are here to help you pursue the outcome you deserve.
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