Which specialist treats endometriosis?

A gynaecologist can review painful periods, pelvic symptoms, pain during sex and fertility concerns, then examine you and decide whether tests are useful. Endometriosis may involve tissue around the ovaries, womb, bowel or bladder, so a specialist may coordinate care with other clinicians when symptoms affect these areas.

Treatment depends on your symptoms, plans for pregnancy and previous treatment. Options may include anti-inflammatory treatment, hormone-suppressing medicines or keyhole surgery to remove visible endometriosis. Read about [Laparoscopic Excision of Endometriosis](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/laparoscopic-excision-of-endometriosis/) and [GnRH Analogue Therapy](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/gnrh-analogue-therapy/).

You can start with a general gynaecologist or ask for referral to an endometriosis-focused service. Take a symptom diary showing cycle timing, pain location, bowel or bladder changes, bleeding pattern and medicines tried. Mention whether you are trying to conceive, because this affects the assessment and treatment discussion.

Bring previous scan reports and operation notes if available. Painful periods and pain during sex can be discussed before the visit so the clinician understands how symptoms affect work, sleep and relationships.

Arrange medical review if pelvic pain repeatedly disrupts daily activities, periods are increasingly painful, sex causes pain, or pregnancy is taking longer than expected. Seek urgent help for sudden severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, fever or vomiting, because these symptoms need prompt assessment and may have causes other than endometriosis.

Ask which type of gynaecologist is best for your symptoms, whether an examination or scan is appropriate, how treatment may affect fertility, and when surgery would be considered. You can also ask about [Anti-inflammatory Therapy for Period Pain](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/nsaid-therapy-for-period-pain/).