Preparing for an Endometriosis Appointment

Five things to write down

1. Your main symptoms: describe what you experience, when it began and how often it happens. Include pain, bleeding, bloating, fatigue, bowel or bladder symptoms, and pain during or after sex if relevant.
2. Your pain patterns: note where it hurts, how long it lasts, severity and timing in relation to your period. Describe the sensation and what it prevents you from doing; a number alone may not explain the impact.
3. What helps or makes symptoms worse: list medicines and doses, heat, rest, food or movement, and whether they helped. Record observations without assuming that an association proves a trigger.
4. Effects on daily life: include missed work or school, disrupted sleep, difficulty with movement or digestion, and changes in energy or relationships.
5. Your priorities and questions: write down what you most want help with. Bring current medicines, relevant test results, previous treatments and any family history of endometriosis.

Five questions to ask your clinician

1. Could endometriosis or another condition be contributing to my symptoms? Ask what other causes, such as adenomyosis, fibroids or digestive conditions, may need consideration.
2. What treatment options are appropriate for me? Discuss expected benefits, side effects and how your preferences or pregnancy plans affect the choices. Options may include medicines, surgery or supportive care depending on your situation.
3. How can I manage symptoms between appointments? Ask for an individual pain-management plan, advice on supportive measures, and which changes should prompt earlier review.
4. Would further tests, imaging or specialist referral be helpful? Ask what each investigation can and cannot show. A normal ultrasound does not necessarily exclude endometriosis.
5. What should I track before the next visit? Agree which symptoms are useful to record, when to follow up, and whom to contact if you have concerns.

Before you leave

Write down the plan, including any medicines, tests, referrals and follow-up arrangements. Ask for clarification if something is unclear. A brief summary in your own words can help confirm that you and the clinician understand the next steps.

If symptoms continue or worsen, arrange further review. Do not wait to complete a diary before seeking care. Sudden severe pain, fainting or pain with possible pregnancy needs urgent in-person assessment.