NICE publishes key Quality Standard on Endometriosis

This new Quality Standard covers diagnosing and managing endometriosis in women, including young women aged 17 and under. It describes the characteristics of high-quality care in areas of practice which are a priority to improve. Key audiences include service providers, healthcare professionals and commissioners.

Endometriosis affects a significant proportion of women of reproductive age, with around 1.5 million women in the UK currently living with the condition. It is a chronic and debilitating condition which causes painful or heavy periods. It may also lead to infertility, depression, bladder problems and fatigue. Many women are often left undiagnosed for years. This not only affects quality of life but leads to the disease worsening. With the right treatment, however, many of the symptoms suffered can become manageable.

In its guidance, NICE has highlighted three key quality statements:  the handling of suspected endometriosis, referral to gynaecology services after initial hormonal treatment and referral to specialist endometriosis services in cases of deep endometriosis.  

FSRH hopes our members and, more broadly, commissioners, service providers and healthcare professionals find this guidance useful in informing high quality practice. Such practice contributes to our vision for all to receive access to high quality sexual and reproductive healthcare throughout their lives.

The guidance can be found here.