Services
Endometriosis
Tissue similar to the lining of the uterus growing where it should not, and one of the most commonly delayed diagnoses in gynaecology.
Endometriosis is frequently diagnosed years later than it should be, because the pain it causes gets filed under “bad periods”. Studies consistently find delays measured in years rather than months. That delay matters, because the condition can progress and can affect fertility.
What it feels like
- Period pain that worsens year on year rather than settling
- Pain between periods, not only during them
- Deep pain during or after sex
- Heavy bleeding
- Pain on opening the bowels or passing urine, often cyclical
- Difficulty conceiving
How it is investigated
A careful history does most of the work — the pattern of pain over time is more informative than any single test. An ultrasound is the usual first investigation and can show endometriomas or signs of adenomyosis, but a normal scan does not exclude endometriosis. Where the picture fits and the scan is clear, laparoscopy remains the definitive way to look.
Treatment
It depends on what is troubling you most and whether you are trying to conceive. Options run from hormonal management of the pain through to surgical treatment of deposits and adhesions, which I perform laparoscopically. What I will not do is tell you the pain is normal.
Every case is different, and what is right for one woman is not right for another. The purpose of a first appointment is to work out which applies to you. Arrange a consultation.
Talk it through
A consultation is a conversation first. Nothing is booked in until you want it to be.