Endometriosis

  • See a specialist in as little as 24 hours
  • Fast access to tests and endometriosis treatment
  • BSGE-accredited endometriosis centres for advanced care

Enquiries & Appointments

Womens Health-1095916826.jpg

ENDOMETRIOSIS AT HCA HEALTHCARE UK

Why choose us?
Endometriosis is a complex condition, and it’s often overlooked. We can help diagnose it early, to slow its progress and limit its impact on your life. You’ll get fast access to extended appointments designed to give you the time and space to discuss your situation in full.  Our skilled endometriosis specialists can treat you in state-of-the-art facilities, including new dedicated women’s health centres.

Endometriosis is a common women's health condition that can affect you at any age from puberty to menopause. According to Endometriosis UK, around 1.5 million women and those assigned female at birth currently have it in the UK. 

Endometriosis is caused by cells like those in your womb (uterus) growing in other parts of your body. These cells then behave like womb cells during your menstrual cycle, so they build up before breaking down and bleeding during your period, but without leaving your body. 

If it isn’t spotted and diagnosed, endometriosis can lead to severe symptoms and complications, including pelvic pain and infertility, but if it’s diagnosed and treated early, that can help make it more manageable.

Endometriosis affects each person differently, but common symptoms can include:
  • Chronic pain in your pelvic area and lower back
  • Painful or heavy periods
  • Ovulation pain, which can include nausea
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Pain when going to the toilet
  • Irregular periods
  • Infertility
You may also feel more tired than usual, experience stomach problems such as nausea and bloating, or have low mood or anxiety. Some of these symptoms can feel worse during your period and endometriosis isn’t necessarily the cause, as many of its symptoms are present in other conditions too.  

If you’re struggling with any of these problems, we can give you clear answers and the treatment you need, so you can get back to your living your life.

There is no cure for endometriosis and most women don’t know they have it. So early diagnosis is very important to help slow its progress, manage your symptoms and limit any long-term impact. This could help you live and work with confidence and make informed choices.

However, diagnosis takes an average of eight years and 10 months in the UK due to lack of awareness, and because many endometriosis symptoms overlap with other conditions. 

Choosing HCA UK means you don’t have to wait. Whether you're experiencing symptoms, need new treatment or want a second opinion, you can get access to our endometriosis specialists in as little as 24 hours. 

With us, you’ll get the best possible care, from the latest diagnostics through to advanced robotic surgery, if you need it. We’re also experts in severe endometriosis care, helping range of patients each year across our British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE) accredited centres

Whatever your age, condition or symptoms, you’re in the right hands.

The causes of endometriosis aren’t fully understood, but your consultant can give you a clear, actionable view of your own personal situation. 

Here are some of the problems that can cause endometriosis:

  • Blood flowing backwards through your fallopian tubes during your period, known as reverse or retrograde menstruation (though it doesn’t automatically cause endometriosis)
  • Endometrial tissue, which is the tissue that lines your womb, travelling around your body in your lymphatic system or bloodstream, known as lymphatic or circulatory spread
  • Your immune system being unable to spot and remove endometrial tissue outside your womb
  • Other cells in your body transforming into endometrial cells and growing, (metaplasia) which often occurs in response to inflammation
Certain factors may increase your risk, though they can also be associated with other conditions too:
  • A family history of the condition, such as your mother, grandmother or sister having it
  • Short menstrual cycles
  • Long-lasting, heavy periods
  • Starting your period at an early age (before 11)
  • Never having children
  • Having these factors doesn't necessarily mean you have or will get endometriosis. Every person is different, and our experts can help you understand your specific condition and how best to manage it.
    Woman having a consultation

    900

    Endometriosis patients treated in the UK each year

    4

    BCGE-accredited centres

    26

    expert endometriosis consultants

    Next day appointments

    See a specialist in as little as 24 hours

    Specialist care

    Talk to women’s health GPs and consultants

    Dedicated facilities

    Spaces specifically designed for women

    Are you worried about endometriosis symptoms?

    Get in touch and book a same-or-next-day GP appointment.

    Have a referral letter and need to book?

    Simply book a test, scan or treatment directly today.

    Unsure of a diagnosis and need some answers?

    Talk to a consultant and get the reassurance you need.

    ENDOMETRIOSIS TESTS AND SCANS AT HCA UK

    Vital tests and scans

    Early detection is one of the most important steps in diagnosing and treating endometriosis. Our network of diagnostic centres is specifically designed for women’s health, giving you fast access to the tests and scans you need.

    We have extended women’s health appointments, available within 24 hours, so you and your endometriosis consultant can fully discuss your symptoms and concerns. You’ll have access to a full range of tests with results back within 48 hours, so your consultant can talk you through your condition and start any treatment as soon as possible. 

    Those tests might include:

    Womens_Health_DWELL_LINGER_Shot_01_3260_FINAL_V2_FLAT_RGB.jpg

    ENDOMETRIOSIS TREATMENTS AT HCA UK

    Fast, effective treatment
    There isn’t a cure for endometriosis yet, but there are many effective ways to treat and manage your symptoms. Whatever your condition, we have a full range of treatments that can help you get back to living life on your terms, from complex pain management to minimally invasive robotic surgery. 

    Your multidisciplinary team will consider factors such as your age, your condition and whether you want to get pregnant, and specifically tailor your treatment to meet your needs. 

    Some of the treatments we offer include: 
    • Pain management medicines and ongoing support
    • Hormone therapy for endometriosis
    • Endometriosis surgery including robotic-assisted laparoscopy
    • Oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries)
    Womens Health 1413469919.jpeg

    Accessing private health care

    building_2_external_river_night_09_2017_LBH

    Self-pay

    You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all of our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.

    And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll give you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.

    Book an appointment

    Endometriosis FAQs

    At HCA UK, we have decades of women’s health expertise and a network of women’s health centres, so you can get a fast, accurate diagnosis. But other women can wait years to get diagnosed, because the symptoms of endometriosis overlap with so many other conditions, such as:
    • Pelvic inflammatory disease (infection in the pelvis)
    • Adenomyosis (endometrial tissue that grows into the muscle layer of the uterus)
    • Ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs that can develop on an ovary)
    • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (chronic condition affecting the digestive system)
    • Interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder pain)
    • Fibroids (non-cancerous growths in or around the womb)
    • Painful periods
    There’s also a general lack of awareness, because signs such as painful periods are often dismissed by family, friends or healthcare professionals. 

    This is part of a gender health gap costing the UK economy over £20 billion per year. Our dedicated women’s health services are aimed at closing this gap and ensuring your concerns are heard, understood and addressed. 
     

    Yes, there are. Endometriosis can affect different parts of your body in different ways. 

    The main types of endometriosis are:

    • Superficial endometriosis, the most common type, is found on the thin lining of the abdomen and the organs within it.
    • Deep infiltrating endometriosis is a less common but more severe form that infiltrates the muscles and organs such as the bladder and bowel.
    • Endometriomas are fluid-filled cysts commonly found in the ovaries, sometimes known as ‘chocolate cysts'.
    • Abdominal wall endometriosis is found on the wall of the abdomen, often attached to an old surgical incision.
    It’s possible that some or all of these types of endometriosis can happen within your body at the same time.  If you receive a diagnosis, your consultant will clearly explain what it means to help you understand your personal situation. That includes what it might mean for your health and future, as well as addressing any of your questions and concerns.

    Our experts can help you avoid or manage complications with tailored advice and treatment, ensuring you can lead your normal life with confidence. 

    If left untreated, endometriosis can lead to:

    • Chronic pain and fatigue
    • Problems with your sex life and relationships
    • Mental health impacts such as depression
    Endometriosis is also associated with infertility because of the way it can affect your reproductive organs. However, Endometriosis UK estimates that 60-70% of women with the condition can get pregnant naturally, including women with severe cases.

    Patient story

    Watch Halima’s story
    21-year-old Halima suffered from severe, deep infiltrating endometriosis since she began puberty. It caused her debilitating pelvic, back and bowel pain and was frequently misdiagnosed until she visited Mr Denis Tsepov, Consultant Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon at The Harley Street Clinic.

    Other endometriosis patient stories

    Not enough focus is given to women-specific issues such as endometriosis. We’re committed to improving women’s access to care, making their experiences of healthcare more positive, and getting better outcomes for as many women as we can.

    Reviewed by
    CNS - Viorica Burea / Leandri Van Romburgh