Rapid endometriosis tests to be introduced on the NHS in England and Wales

Women across England and Wales are set to benefit from faster diagnosis of endometriosis as rapid testing is introduced across the NHS in a move aimed at reducing years of waiting for answers.

The new diagnostic tests are expected to help identify endometriosis much earlier, allowing patients to begin treatment sooner and potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures in some cases.

Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, often causing severe pelvic pain, painful periods, fatigue and, in some cases, fertility problems. It is estimated to affect around one in 10 women of reproductive age.

Many patients currently face lengthy delays before receiving a diagnosis, with some waiting several years after first experiencing symptoms. Health experts hope the introduction of rapid testing will significantly shorten that timeline.

The NHS rollout follows successful clinical studies showing the tests can accurately detect biological markers associated with endometriosis, helping clinicians identify the condition more quickly than traditional diagnostic methods alone.

Doctors say earlier diagnosis could improve patients' quality of life by enabling quicker access to pain management, hormone treatments and specialist care while reducing unnecessary appointments and hospital referrals.

Health campaigners have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a major step forward for women's healthcare and highlighting the importance of raising awareness of endometriosis symptoms.

The NHS is expected to begin introducing the rapid tests in specialist services before expanding availability across England and Wales over the coming months.