Endometriosis

Defined as the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the endometrial cavity, endometriosis is a common condition.

Estimates of 1 in 10 New Zealand girls and women, transgender or non-binary female assigned at birth are expected to have endometriosis in their reproductive years. 

The cause of endometriosis is likely to be multifactorial with genetic and familial factors playing a role. Clinical presentation may be variable with dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, IBS and fertility issues present, though approximately one third are asymptomatic.

Delayed diagnosis is of significant concern as disease progression can result in significant physical, psychosocial, sexual, reproductive impacts and a general decrease in quality of life.

The primary learning points include:

• Early recognition of symptoms suspicious of endometriosis.
• Assessment of suspected endometriosis in the primary care setting.
• Appropriate clinical management of endometriosis and associated conditions.

Recommended pre-reading resources:

• Diagnosis and Management of Endometriosis in New Zealand NZ MOH(2020)
• Endometriosis diagnosis and management bpac^nz (2021)

Acknowledgements

Content created by Dr Grace Lee, FRNZCGP, MBCHB, BSc, DipTravMed, with specialist review by Dr Anil Sharma MB ChB 1987 Leicester; MRCOG 1996; FRANZCOG 1999.