Endometriosis GP Appointment — What to Say
Endometriosis takes an average of 7–10 years to diagnose. Much of that delay happens at GP level, where symptoms are routinely normalised as "bad periods". Knowing how to describe your symptoms using clinical language — and knowing what to ask for — is the most effective tool you have. This guide gives you that language and helps you advocate clearly for investigation and referral.
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What to tell your doctor
- 1Pain that is disproportionate to a normal period — describe it specifically: stabbing, burning, deep, radiating, incapacitating
- 2Pain outside of your period: during ovulation, during sex (dyspareunia), during bowel movements or urination (especially around your period)
- 3How much the pain affects your daily life: missed work or school days, cancelled plans, reliance on painkillers
- 4Whether hormonal contraceptives have been used to mask symptoms rather than investigate
- 5Any bowel symptoms: bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation worsening around your period
- 6Fertility concerns if relevant
- 7Family history of endometriosis — it has a strong genetic component
Questions to ask your doctor
- Q1.Given my symptoms, I'd like a referral to a gynaecologist — can we discuss that today?
- Q2.NICE guidelines recommend not dismissing endometriosis based on a normal ultrasound — can we discuss further investigation?
- Q3.I understand a definitive diagnosis requires laparoscopy — when is that step appropriate?
- Q4.What pain management options are available while we investigate?
- Q5.Should I be referred to an endometriosis specialist centre rather than a general gynaecologist?
- Q6.How do I track my symptoms between now and the referral appointment?
Don't forget to bring
- ✓Menstrual diary for the past 3–6 months: pain levels, days missed from normal life, associated symptoms
- ✓List of painkillers used and whether they are effective (endometriosis pain is often NSAID-resistant)
- ✓Any previous investigations: ultrasounds, laparoscopies, hormone blood tests
- ✓Note whether a normal ultrasound has been used to dismiss your symptoms — ultrasound cannot rule out endometriosis
- ✓Family history: mother or sister with endometriosis
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