The Royal College of GPs responded with a statement pointing out the sample size was “small” and the symptoms “broad”, but said women’s health issues would always be taken “seriously”.

“In the case of endometriosis – the main focus of this report today – although this is a common gynaecological condition, it cannot be diagnosed in primary care as it requires a surgical procedure that must be conducted in secondary care. GPs often find themselves in an incredibly difficult position as the symptoms are so broad, and some are similar to other conditions, and so can only refer if they are sure endometriosis might be the underlying cause, or else secondary care would be unable to cope with demand.

“It is regrettable that so many women in this paper have reported a negative experience in obtaining a diagnosis – but the sample is small, and the report itself recognises that it is unlikely to be representative of all women’s experiences.

“Nevertheless, all of our patients should be treated with dignity and respect, and we would like them to be assured that whatever their symptoms, and whatever their condition, their GP will always take their condition seriously – and consider any physical, psychological and social factors affecting their health when formulating a treatment plan.”

The statement added: “The College has recognised women’s health as a clinical priority over the next 12 months and will shortly embark on a programme of work to develop resources to support GPs and our teams in the identification and treatment of women’s health issues. We look forward to working with a number of organisations, including the WHAPPG and other medical royal colleges, to inform this project.”

High-profile women have discussed their own experiences of endometriosis to raise awareness of the condition, including Lena Dunham, Star Wars’ Daisy Ridley, Dancing with the Stars’ Julianne Hough and Olympian Emily Seebohm.

For information and support on endometriosis, visit wellbeingofwomen.org.uk and endometriosis-uk.org.

Images: iStock / Rex

Endometriosis symptoms often “dismissed” by doctors according to new MPs report