76% of women, rising to 89% of those aged 16-24, said they would put off going to the doctor if they were experiencing painful periods which were interfering with their day-to-day activities.

Periods can be painful. But if the period or pelvic pain you are experiencing is affecting your daily activities and quality of life, then it’s best to see a doctor. We know that the NHS is busy, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, but if your pelvic period pains are stopping you doing things and getting in the way of your life then we recommend you seek medical advice.

You might visit your doctor if you have symptoms of endometriosis, are worried about painful, irregular periods or are concerned about infertility problems.

The common symptoms of endometriosis are similar to the common symptoms of many conditions, meaning diagnosis can take some time. Sharing as much information as possible during your first appointment will hopefully help speed up your diagnosis.

What will happen during my doctor’s appointment?

Your doctor is trained to deal with thousands of conditions, but will not specialise in endometriosis specifically. You can download Endometriosis UK's useful Pain and Sympton Diary (Link attached to the left) to help you remember relevant information.

Please bear in mind that your doctor may want to examine your abdomen, and possibly examine you internally, to help them with their diagnosis. If you are concerned about this, please let them know.

(https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/visiting-your-doctor)

he symptoms of endometriosis can vary. Some women are badly affected, while others might not have any noticeable symptoms.

The main symptoms of endometriosis are:

• pain in your lower tummy or back (pelvic pain) – usually worse during your period
• period pain that stops you doing your normal activities
• pain during or after sex
• pain when peeing or pooing during your period
• feeling sick, constipation, diarrhoea, or blood in your pee during your period
• difficulty getting pregnant

You may also have heavy periods. You might use lots of pads or tampons, or you may bleed through your clothes.

For some women, endometriosis can have a big impact on their life and may sometimes lead to feelings of depression.

There's currently no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments that can help ease the symptoms.

Treatments include:

• painkillers – such as ibuprofen and paracetamol
• hormone medicines and contraceptives – including the combined pill, the contraceptive patch, an intrauterine system (IUS), and medicines called gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues
• surgery to cut away patches of endometriosis tissue
• an operation to remove part or all of the organs affected by endometriosis – such as surgery to remove the womb (hysterectomy)

Your doctor will discuss the options with you. Sometimes they may suggest not starting treatment immediately to see if your symptoms improve on their own.

Endometriosis can be a difficult condition to deal with, both physically and emotionally.

As well as support from your doctor, you may find it helpful to contact a support group, such as Endometriosis UK, for information and advice.

In addition to detailed information about endometriosis, Endometriosis UK has a directory of local support groups, a helpline on 0808 808 2227, and an online community for women affected by the condition.