New Endometriosis Drug Approved, but Gaps in Care Persist

NICE has approved Relugolix combination therapy, a new oral treatment for endometriosis, providing more options for patients. However, I agree with Endometriosis UK highlights that while this offers choice, it will help only a small proportion of sufferers, leaving many without effective solutions for this debilitating condition.

The economic burden is severe, costing the UK £8.2 billion annually in healthcare expenses and lost work. However, this does not account for the emotional, mental, and financial strain on individuals, families, and relationships. Despite the significant impact, women face unacceptable delays in diagnosis—averaging 8 years, 10 months, with Welsh women waiting 10 years, 8 months.

Access to specialist care remains unequal. While England has 63 endometriosis centres, there is only one in Northern Ireland, one in Scotland, and zero in Wales. This lack of post code lottery support exacerbates suffering, leaving many without proper medical care.

Essentially, a global issue and women are being left to suffer which is not acceptable in this day and age.

Endometriosis is not just a physical disease—it affects mental and emotional well-being. Rather than relying solely on symptom management, early intervention in women’s 20s, 30s, and 40s is crucial.

Women deserve urgent action, better education, and preventative strategies to improve long-term health outcomes. The current health approach and apathy is ongoing, the 1.5 million women who suffer endometriosis in UK , and 176 million globally require an urgent change attitude and rethink of health care.