About Endometriosis
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can cause inflammation, pain, scarring and, in some cases, fertility problems.
How common is endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, making it one of the most common gynaecological conditions worldwide.
What causes endometriosis?
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown. Several factors are thought to contribute, including genetics, hormonal influences, immune system changes and retrograde menstruation. Research into the condition is ongoing.
What are the most common symptoms?
Common symptoms include:
Painful periods, Chronic pelvic pain, Pain during or after sex, Heavy or irregular periods, Painful bowel movements or urination, particularly during menstruation, Bloating and digestive symptoms, Fatigue, Fertility difficulties, Lower back pain
Symptoms vary from person to person, and some women may experience few or no symptoms.
Can endometriosis affect fertility?
Yes. While many women with endometriosis conceive naturally, the condition can make it more difficult to become pregnant. If you’re experiencing fertility concerns, speak to your healthcare professional for advice.
Why does diagnosis often take so long?
Endometriosis symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Symptoms also vary widely between individuals, and imaging may not always detect the disease. These factors can contribute to delays in diagnosis.
About The EndoSure Test
What is the EndoSure Test?
The EndoSure Test is the first non-invasive, rapid and highly accurate test designed to support the earlier diagnosis of endometriosis. It provides healthcare professionals with additional clinical information to help guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.
How does the EndoSure Test work?
The test records naturally occurring electrical activity from the abdomen using small adhesive sensors placed on the skin. These signals are analysed using advanced technology to identify patterns associated with endometriosis. If you’d like to learn more, visit Understanding EndoSure Technology.
What does the EndoSure Test actually detect?
The EndoSure Test does not detect endometriosis tissue itself. Instead, it analyses naturally occurring electrical activity within the abdomen to identify patterns that research has associated with endometriosis. These findings are interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history and clinical assessment to support diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Is the EndoSure Test painful?
No. The EndoSure Test is completely non-invasive and painless. It requires no needles, no internal examinations, no anaesthetic and no incisions. The procedure is entirely external, using small adhesive sensors placed on the skin of your abdomen.
Is the EndoSure Test similar to an ECG?
Yes. The EndoSure Test works in a similar way to an electrocardiogram (ECG), using adhesive sensors placed on the skin to record naturally occurring electrical activity. While an ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart, the EndoSure Test records electrical activity within the abdomen to identify patterns associated with endometriosis.
Is the test safe?
Yes. The EndoSure Test is a non-invasive procedure that uses adhesive electrode pads placed on the skin, similar to those used during an ECG. Most patients experience no discomfort beyond the temporary placement of the sensors.
Does the test involve radiation?
No. The EndoSure Test does not use radiation, X-rays or imaging. It simply records your body’s own naturally occurring electrical signals using sensors placed on the skin.
How accurate is the EndoSure Test?
The reported diagnostic accuracy of the EndoSure Test is 98%, with a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 96%. This means that there is a 4–5% chance the test will not detect disease that is present.
Subsequently, the test is proving to be very accurate in first-time diagnosis and post-operative patients.
Like any medical test, the results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history and other investigations to support clinical decision-making.
Can the EndoSure Test identify endometriosis at any stage?
The EndoSure Test has been developed to identify patterns associated with endometriosis across all stages of the disease. While it does not detect endometriosis tissue directly, it can provide valuable clinical information to support diagnosis when interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical assessment. Like any diagnostic test, EndoSure may not detect every case of disease.
Does the EndoSure Test provide a stage of disease?
No. The test detects all stages of endometriosis; however, it doesn’t provide a stage. Instead, the EndoSure Test provides an activity index, which does not correlate with stage.
Does the EndoSure Test detect endometriosis and adenomyosis?
Yes. The test detects both endometriosis and adenomyosis but is unable to differentiate between the conditions.
Can the EndoSure Test tell you where endometriosis is located?
No. The test is unable to tell you where in the body it is located.
Does the EndoSure Test replace laparoscopy?
No. Laparoscopy remains an important diagnostic and treatment procedure in certain cases. The EndoSure Test is designed to support earlier clinical assessment and help guide decisions about further investigation and treatment.
Is the EndoSure Test the same as an ultrasound or MRI?
No. Ultrasound and MRI produce images of the body, whereas the EndoSure Test measures naturally occurring electrical activity within the abdomen. These investigations may be used together as part of your overall assessment.
Can I have the test if I've already had surgery for endometriosis?
Yes. The EndoSure Test may also be used to help assess disease activity or recurrence following surgery or medical treatment. Your clinician will advise whether it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Can I have the test while taking medication?
Most medications can be continued. However, some medicines that affect bowel motility or gastrointestinal activity may influence the test. Your clinic will advise you before your appointment. Do not stop taking prescribed medication unless advised by your healthcare professional.
Preparing for Your Appointment
How do I prepare for the EndoSure Test?
You’ll usually be asked to fast for 8 hours before your appointment, wear loose-fitting clothing and follow any preparation instructions provided by your clinic. Full guidance will be included in your booking confirmation and Patient Information Leaflet.
Do I need to fast?
Yes. Fasting before the test helps ensure accurate recordings. Your clinic will provide specific instructions before your appointment.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended to allow easy access to your abdomen during the test.
Do I need to undress?
No. You’ll only need to lift your top so the practitioner can place three small adhesive sensors on your abdomen. Your clothing can then be repositioned for the remainder of the test.
Who should not have the test?
The test may not be suitable if you have recently had bowel surgery, an active bowel infection, bowel obstruction, or certain gastrointestinal conditions. If you’re unsure whether the test is suitable for you, please contact your clinic before booking.
Are there any medical conditions that could affect the results?
Some gastrointestinal conditions and certain medications may influence the recordings. Your healthcare professional will review your medical history before the test to ensure it is appropriate.
During Your Appointment
What happens during the test?
You’ll relax on a comfortable reclining bed while a baseline recording is taken. After drinking water, the test continues for approximately 30 minutes while the sensors record naturally occurring electrical activity from your abdomen. The entire appointment usually takes around 60–75 minutes.
How long does the appointment take?
Appointments typically take 60–75 minutes, including preparation and the recording period.
Will I feel anything during the test?
No. The test is painless. The only sensation is the adhesive sensors attached to your skin.
Is there any recovery time?
No. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately after your appointment.
Can I drive afterwards?
Yes. As no sedation or anaesthetic is used, you can usually drive and continue your normal activities after the test.
Your Results
When will I receive my results?
Your results are reviewed by a clinician and are typically available same day, although some clinics may be able to provide results sooner.
Who receives my results?
Your results will be shared with both you and your GP to support your ongoing care.
Will my GP recognise the report?
The result will be sent to your GP who will hopefully accept the findings. In the case of a positive test there is an option to discuss your results with an endometriosis specialist to determine a treatment pathway.
What happens if my result suggests endometriosis?
Your clinician will discuss the result with you, and highlight the most appropriate next steps. Depending on your individual circumstances, these may include treatment options, referral to a specialist or additional investigations.
What happens if my result does not suggest endometriosis?
A result that does not suggest endometriosis can still be valuable. It may help your clinician consider other possible causes of your symptoms and determine whether further investigations are needed.
Payment & Booking for Lawmed Clinics
How much does the EndoSure Test cost?
The EndoSure Test costs £350.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. A £50 deposit is required when booking your appointment. This amount is deducted from the total cost of your test.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. All clinics accept self-referrals, allowing you to book directly with your chosen clinic.
Can I book the test directly?
Yes. You can book your appointment directly through our website by selecting your preferred clinic, date and time.
Can I change or cancel my appointment?
If you need to rearrange or cancel your appointment, please contact your clinic as soon as possible. Cancellation policies may vary between clinics.
Where can I have the EndoSure Test?
The EndoSure Test is available at selected clinics across the UK. Visit OUR CLINICS page to view participating clinics and select the location that is most convenient for you.
Still have questions?
If you can't find the answer you're looking for, our team is here to help. Please get in touch and we'll be happy to answer any questions about the EndoSure Test, preparing for your appointment, or the booking process.
