To suspect endometriosis in a young person after exclusion of other appropriate aetiologies. Endometriosis can occur in young people: make use of advice and guidance/referral to gynaecology for prompt person-centred care.
Ensure to respond compassionately to young people with concerns about endometriosis, validate pain, and recognise that symptoms can be cyclical or persistent. Consider offering aids such as a symptom tracker.
Treat the young person and not the disease: check expectations on functioning in education or work, relationships, timing, and preparation for starting a family. Use digital communication systems to share patient information from recognised sources such as Endometriosis.org.
Prescribers should have a ‘can do’ attitude in initiating hormonal therapies with patient advice and support. These treatments can improve symptoms and allow the young person to function at work and in education.
Ensure that people with confirmed diagnosed endometriosis have clear explanations of the condition and access to specialists for long-term symptom control and discussions around conception, assisted reproductive technology, and the potential risk of obstetric complications.
Encourage young people to use patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) for accessing gynaecological services during exacerbations. Primary care can offer initial clinical assessment and examination to support the PIFU discussion by responding to specific queries from gynaecology specialists.
