Mar 12, 2025

Is it Endometriosis?

Ever feel like you’re going in circles trying to get a diagnosis for Endometriosis? You’re not alone. The condition affects 1 in 10 women (source) and people assigned female at birth, but it still takes an average of between 7 and 10 years to get a proper diagnosis. So what can you do if you suspect Endometriosis, but you can't get a doctor to take you seriously? WUKA experts discuss.

First step: don’t dismiss your pain

One of the biggest barriers to an endometriosis diagnosis is the internalised belief that pain is just part of having a period. That's simply not true.

If you’ve been told "everything looks fine" but you're still in pain, you might start wondering, am I making this up? (Hint: You’re not.)

A transvaginal ultrasound is often the first step in diagnosing endometriosis, but it can miss deep infiltrating endometrial tissue and small lesions (source). Similarly, MRI scans can be inconclusive depending on the radiologist’s experience (source). That means a clear scan does not mean you're free from endometriosis.

What should you do If you're struggling to get a diagnosis?

Some doctors hesitate to give a definitive diagnosis without surgery, and while excision surgery is the gold standard (source), not everyone gets referred for it right away.

Here’s how to advocate for yourself:

Track your symptoms: Keep a log of your pain levels, cycle patterns, and how it impacts daily life.
Request a referral: Ask for a gynaecologist specialising in endometriosis.
Look for an excision specialist: Not all gynaecologists are skilled in detecting and treating endometriosis properly.

Can you have endometriosis without heavy periods or severe cramps?

Absolutely. While heavy bleeding and cramping are common, endometriosis also causes:

Chronic pelvic pain (even outside your period)
Painful sex
Digestive issues like bloating and constipation
Fatigue and brain fog

In fact, up to 30% of endometriosis patients don’t experience severe period pain (source). If your symptoms don’t fit the "classic" profile, that doesn’t mean you don’t have it.

The Frustration of Waiting for Surgery

Many people wait years for excision surgery due to long referral times. In the meantime:

Try pelvic physiotherapy to ease muscle tension.
Consider anti-inflammatory diets to reduce pain.
Seek pain management options, but know that hormonal birth control is a band-aid, not a cure.

Bottom Line: Trust Yourself

If your symptoms interfere with daily life, keep pushing for answers. Learn how to advocate for yourself, and keep a record of your symptoms so that you can go to your next doctor's appointment armed with as much knowledge as possible. Remember, you know your body better than anyone, so trust yourself and be prepared to speak up.

Endometriosis: How to Advocate for Yourself

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis Surgery: What to Expect