The endometriosis HealthPathway has recently been updated to provide GPs with a comprehensive framework for the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.
Key takeaways of the updated pathway include:
- ultrasound is now recommended as the first-line investigation to support diagnosis. Surgery is no longer required as an initial diagnostic step
- first-line hormonal therapy should be offered to patients not actively trying to conceive, including following surgical intervention
- if fertility is the patient’s primary concern, referral to a fertility specialist is recommended for further management
- referral to a gynaecologist should be considered if deep infiltrating endometriosis, endometriomas, or where there is no improvement after three months of hormonal therapy, to discuss second-line hormonal options or surgical management.
It is important for clinicians and patients to be aware that surgical intervention may not always result in symptom improvement and that management of endometriosis should adopt a multidisciplinary approach, involving GPs, pelvic floor physiotherapists, and gynaecologists.
Dedicated Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain clinics are located in our region or nearby, in Benowa and Coffs Harbour.
