Overview

• In July, Ella Henderson publicly revealed that a January laparoscopy had confirmed severe endometriosis with scar tissue affecting her bladder and bowel.
• She has joined forces with Endometriosis UK to highlight that the condition affects one in ten women in the UK and routinely takes nine years to diagnose.
• Consultants warn that endometriosis often goes undetected on ultrasounds and MRIs, requiring invasive laparoscopy for definitive diagnosis when symptoms persist.
• Medical professionals advise keeping a symptom diary and seeking specialist referrals for chronic pelvic pain, heavy periods or pain during intercourse.
• Available treatments include hormonal options such as combined or progesterone-only pills and intrauterine devices, as well as surgical excision procedures that may involve multiple stages.