In a statement, Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, said it was “unacceptable” that women were waiting so long to receive the help and support they need.

“Our finding that it now takes even longer to get a diagnosis of endometriosis must be a wake-up call to decision makers to stop minimising or ignoring the significant impact endometriosis can have on both physical and mental health,” she said. “Now is the time to reverse the trend and make commitments to drive down diagnosis time for endometriosis and other menstrual health conditions.”

Endometriosis affects one in 10 women across the UK and can cause symptoms ranging from painful and heavy periods to fertility issues and pain when peeing or pooing. There are several different types and stages of endometriosis, and the cause is not yet fully understood.

Currently, the only way to diagnose endometriosis is via a laparoscopy – which is why GPs cannot definitively diagnose someone with the condition. If they suspect endometriosis, they can recommend treatments and, if these do not work, provide a gynaecology referral. A gynaecologist can order further tests, including a laparoscopy, to diagnose the condition.

Receiving an endometriosis diagnosis in the UK now takes an average of almost 9 years, according to a new report