Cromwell Hospital has launched a new international centre to help women get a diagnosis and treatment for endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a condition where the cells, similar to those that create the womb’s lining, grow elsewhere in the body, such as on the fallopian tubes. These cells react to the monthly menstrual cycle and bleed, but as there is no way for the blood to leave the body, it can cause inflammation, pain and scarring.

It can have a significant impact on someone’s life causing chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, bowel problems, difficulties with conceiving, fatigue and depression.

In the UK, endometriosis affects one in 10 women or those assigned female at birth and many struggle to get a diagnosis. Recent research shows that there is currently an average of 7.5 years between first seeing a doctor about their symptoms and receiving a diagnosis.

The centre, which is led by Mr Amer Raza, Consultant Gynaecologist at Cromwell Hospital, was set up after seeing the obvious gap in care for those struggling to get a diagnosis and treatment for the condition.

Patients can be referred to the centre through their GP, their insurance company or on a self-referral and self-pay basis.

At the initial appointment, each patient will discuss their symptoms, have an assessment and an ultrasound. Following that, each patient will have their case discussed with the multi-disciplinary team (MDT), made up of leading specialists in urology, colorectal surgery and pain medicine, who will consider the best treatment pathway. This may consist of medical or surgical treatment.

The centre is also supported by a nurse specialist, dieticians and physiotherapists, making sure that all treatment plans are personalised and the patient receives the holistic support they need.

Mr Raza said; “For those who have been suffering with chronic pelvic pain or painful periods and have struggled to get a diagnosis and treatment, it can be really frustrating and isolating.

“This is why we’ve set up the International Centre for Endometriosis, to give patients rapid access to assessments, examinations, treatment, whether surgical or medical, and an ongoing plan to help manage the condition all under one roof.

“At Cromwell Hospital, we’re really lucky to have state-of-the-art technology which, if indicated is the right treatment option for a patient, allows us to operate through minimally invasive procedures including robotic surgery reducing surgical risk and recovery time.

“For those who may not have endometriosis but are diagnosed with ovarian cysts, fibroid uterus, heavy periods, polycystic ovary syndrome, we will continue to support and treat them for these conditions.”

Philip Luce, CEO at Cromwell Hospital, adds; “We’re always looking for ways in which we can enhance our offering for patients. There is a clear need for support for those who think they might have endometriosis and we’re delighted to be able to offer this international centre to help people to be diagnosed and receive treatment efficiently and quickly.”

For more information
For further information on Cromwell Hospital please contact Laura Tompkins on laura.tompkins@bupa.com or 07595461287