A five-minute test developed by Queensland researchers could transform the time it takes to diagnose and treat endometriosis, potentially reducing years spent in chronic pain and improving fertility outcomes for thousands of women.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue, similar to the inner lining of the uterus, grows in other parts of the body, causing episodes of severe, often crippling pain.
Despite affecting an estimated one-in-seven Australian women, it takes an average six to eight years for the condition to be diagnosed.
Researchers from the University of Queensland used data from more than 9000 women to develop the Simplified Adolescent Factors for Endometriosis (SAFE) score, which uses six questions to identify girls and young women at risk of endometriosis and fast track their referral to specialists for further assessment.
Australian Women and Girls’ Health Research Centre director Professor Gita Mishra AO said by detecting endometriosis earlier – ideally in adolescence when young women begin their periods – they hope to see patients start treatment sooner, improving their quality of life and fertility outcomes.
“Our research found most women were diagnosed in their late twenties, often when they are trying to fall pregnant,” Mishra said.
“Early diagnosis is critical because it can change treatment of fertility issues later on.”
A previous study on the impact of endometriosis on Australia’s healthcare system found women with the condition had significantly reduced quality of life through severe pelvic pain, infertility issues, irritable bowel syndrome or mental health issues.
Brisbane woman Amy Wilson was diagnosed with endometriosis last year, aged 41.
She started experiencing symptoms – fatigue and inflammation around her pelvis – when she was 34 years old after having kids and stopping contraception.
“I woke up one day and I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t feel my legs and all around my pelvis,” Wilson said.
“I had two or three outbursts like that within about three years.”
Wilson sought advice from different doctors over the years, but none could find answers for her symptoms. She developed anxiety as a result, and experienced bouts of depression.
“When symptoms hit me, I would be really disappointed in myself that I wasn’t getting up and being a better mum,” she said.
“It affected me in everyday life … I stopped looking for fun.”
Wilson was eventually referred to a gynaecologist who diagnosed adenomyosis after a physical examination. Exploratory surgery later confirmed endometriosis, with tissue found around her bowel.
Last year, the mother-of-three had surgery to remove excess tissue and her fallopian tubes, and an IUD implanted to help manage symptoms.
While it didn’t affect her fertility, she said the SAFE test would have “massively” changed her endometriosis journey.
“I have three daughters. I don’t want them to spend seven years of their lives feeling like they can’t find an answer,” Wilson said.
The SAFE score works on a points-based system. The more risk factors identified, the higher a woman’s score and the greater likelihood of the condition.
With the study now published, Mishra said they will now look to evaluate the tool in clinical settings.
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