Endometriosis diagnosis times in the UK are getting worse — not better. In 2026, it now takes an average of nine years and four months to receive a diagnosis, according to Endometriosis UK. Despite growing awareness, millions are still waiting years for answers.
With more people speaking out — including celebrities — the reality of endometriosis is gaining attention.
In March 2026, Daisy Edgar-Jones revealed: “For so long, I had such painful periods and really volatile skin […] It was definitely a relief to find out why I was going through it.”
She also spoke about struggling with persistent acne as a teenager — highlighting how endometriosis symptoms can go beyond pelvic pain.
Similarly, Lili Reinhart shared in December 2025 that she was diagnosed with the chronic condition after a long and frustrating journey. Initially misdiagnosed with interstitial cystitis, it was only after further testing and laparoscopic surgery that doctors confirmed endometriosis.
Their stories reflect a wider issue: delayed diagnosis, misdiagnosis and lack of awareness.
Read more: Suffering from endometriosis? Doctors reveal the best and worst foods for every stage of your cycle
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it — commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder or bowel.
Each month, this tissue responds to hormonal changes just like the uterine lining — but unlike a period, it has no way to leave the body. This can lead to severe inflammation, scar tissue and adhesions as well as chronic pain
It affects one in 10 women in the UK, making it one of the most common gynaecological conditions.
What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Endometriosis symptoms can vary significantly, which is one reason diagnosis is often delayed.
Common symptoms include:
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Severe period pain that disrupts daily life
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Chronic pelvic pain
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Pain during or after sex
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Pain when going to the toilet during your period
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Heavy or prolonged periods
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Bloating (“endo belly”)
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Fatigue
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Difficulty getting pregnant
Some people also experience hormonal acne and skin issues, as highlighted by Daisy Edgar-Jones.
Mental health challenges — including anxiety and depression — are also common due to chronic pain and lack of diagnosis.
If any of these symptoms are ringing bells, it’s worth visiting your GP — you can track any pain and symptoms ahead of your appointment with Endometriosis UK’s tracker.
Read more: How endometriosis can play havoc with your skin — and the best products to use
How long does it take to get an endometriosis diagnosis?
It currently takes women in the UK an average of nine years and four months to get a diagnosis, this marks a worsening delay compared to previous estimates of seven to eight years.
The only way to get a diagnosis via the NHS is by having a laparoscopy — a minimally invasive type of surgery, also known as keyhole surgery, where a small tube with a light and camera attached is passed through the stomach so patches of endometriosis tissue can be identified.
At the end of 2020, an All Party Parliamentary Group called on the government to take urgent action after an inquiry revealed the situation hadn’t improved in a decade.
Why is endometriosis diagnosis so slow?
There are several reasons why diagnosis can take over nine years:
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Many patients visit their GP 10 or more times before diagnosis
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Symptoms are often dismissed as “normal period pain”
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Conditions like IBS or interstitial cystitis are frequently misdiagnosed first
Also, because laparoscopies are an invasive procedure, many patients face long waits, further delaying diagnosis.
For some groups, including those from marginalised communities, diagnosis can take up to 11 years.
How could endometriosis diagnosis improve in the future?
There are promising developments that could improve diagnosis times:
AI-powered tools
Projects like FEMaLe are using machine learning to detect patterns and support earlier diagnosis.
Better education
Improved GP training could reduce misdiagnosis and speed up referrals.
Menstrual health in schools
Menstrual wellbeing is now part of the curriculum in England, with expansion across the UK.
National targets
Campaigners are pushing for diagnosis times to fall to under one year by 2030.
When should you see a doctor about endometriosis concerns?
You should speak to your GP if you experience:
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Severe or worsening period pain
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Ongoing pelvic pain
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Symptoms that interfere with daily life
Tracking your symptoms can help support your case and speed up diagnosis.
Feature image: Freepik
