Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 23
NICE Backs 2 Non-Invasive Endometriosis Tests for NHS in 3-Year Trial
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 23

NICE Backs 2 Non-Invasive Endometriosis Tests for NHS in 3-Year Trial

3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jul 23

Summary

  • Draft NICE guidance recommends two non-invasive endometriosis tests for NHS use in England and Wales, with GPs offering them during a three-year evidence-gathering trial.
  • Endotest uses saliva to detect genetic material and Endosure measures gut electrical signals through abdominal sensor pads, aiming to speed diagnosis and reduce exploratory surgery.
  • Women who waited years for diagnoses said the tests could be life-changing: Lee-Ann Hawkes said it took eight years to be heard, while Lara Sharp said she waited three years.
  • Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth in the UK and can cause severe pain, heavy periods, fatigue and infertility.
  • Guernsey health officials said they will assess whether the kits suit local services as more evidence emerges, while apologising that some patients felt dismissed or unsupported.

Insights

Are these new endometriosis tests a true breakthrough, or just industry-backed tools that might overpromise and underdeliver in real-world clinics?
Could a simple saliva test finally end the decade-long wait and medical gaslighting faced by millions of women with endometriosis?