Specialist endometriosis care in London

Endometriosis can affect daily life in complex and often frustrating ways. At King Edward VII’s Hospital, our specialists provide clear diagnosis and personalised care, helping you understand your condition and feel confident about the next steps.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb (uterus) grows outside it. This most often affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes or pelvic tissue.

Unlike the womb lining, this tissue has no way to leave the body. It responds to hormonal changes in the same way as the womb lining, thickening and breaking down during the menstrual cycle. This can cause inflammation, pain and scar tissue, which may affect nearby organs and lead to ongoing symptoms.

What causes endometriosis?

The exact cause of endometriosis isn’t fully understood. It’s possible that it may develop as a result of several factors, including:

• Retrograde menstruation – where some menstrual blood flows backwards through the fallopian tubes into the pelvis instead of leaving the body
• Spread through the blood or lymphatic system – cells similar to the womb lining may travel to other areas of the body
• Cell changes (metaplasia) – where certain cells in the body change into cells similar to the womb lining
• Genetic factors – endometriosis can run in families
• Previous surgery – tissue may attach to surgical scars, such as after a caesarean section

While these theories help explain how endometriosis may develop, no single cause applies to everyone. A specialist assessment can help build a clearer picture of how the condition may be affecting you and guide appropriate next steps in care.

Diagnosing endometriosis at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Diagnosis begins with listening carefully to your symptoms. Your specialist will discuss the type of pain you’re experiencing, where it occurs and how it affects your day-to-day life.

To help build a clearer picture, investigations may include a pelvic examination and imaging, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.

While scans and examinations can suggest endometriosis, a laparoscopy is currently the only way to confirm a diagnosis. This minimally invasive procedure, carried out under general anaesthetic, uses a small camera to examine your womb, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder and bowel. If endometriosis is seen, your specialist can confirm the diagnosis and explain what it means for your care.

Throughout this process, your care is led by experienced specialists who take the time to explain findings clearly and answer your questions.

Managing endometriosis with King Edward VII’s Hospital

While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce pain and support quality of life. Your care plan is tailored to you, considering your symptoms, priorities and future fertility plans.

Treatment options may include:

• Pain relief medication – such as ibuprofen or naproxen – to manage pain and discomfort
• Hormonal treatments, such as contraceptive tablets, injections, implants or progesterone-based therapies, to slow endometriosis activity and reduce symptoms 

If symptoms persist despite medication, or if fertility is a concern, laparoscopic surgery may be an option. This keyhole approach allows your specialist to remove or destroy endometriosis tissue with precision. You’ll receive clear guidance on what to expect, with time to ask questions and make informed decisions.

If you are unsure which treatment is right for you, or previous treatments have not helped, our specialist team is here to guide you and help you move forward with confidence.

Why choose King Edward VII’s Hospital for your endometriosis care?

Living with endometriosis can feel complex and isolating. At our Women’s Health Clinic, we focus on listening carefully, explaining clearly and supporting you at every stage of your care.

You’ll be seen through a consultant-led assessment by specialists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating endometriosis. We’ll work with you to understand what matters most – your symptoms, priorities and plans for the future, including fertility – so your care feels truly personalised. We then coordinate investigations and treatment seamlessly, helping to reduce waiting times and remove as much uncertainty as possible.

Our aim is to give you clarity and confidence, with the reassurance that your care is expert-led and shaped around you.

Endometriosis FAQs

Can endometriosis be cured?

There is currently no cure for endometriosis. Treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce pain and improve quality of life.

Can you have endometriosis without severe symptoms?

Yes. Some women have mild or occasional symptoms, while others experience persistent pain. Symptom severity does not always reflect how extensive the condition is.

Does endometriosis always affect fertility?

Not everyone with endometriosis will have fertility problems. Some people conceive without difficulty, while others may need additional support. Your specialist can discuss this based on your individual situation.

When should I see a specialist?

If symptoms are ongoing, worsening or affecting your daily life, or if you have concerns about fertility, a specialist assessment can help clarify what’s happening and what support may be appropriate. 

Book your gynaecology appointment

If you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis or would like specialist advice, our gynaecology team at King Edward VII’s Hospital is here to help. We offer prompt access to experienced consultants and clear guidance and care shaped around your needs.
Book your gynaecology consultation, and we’ll provide you with personalised, confidential support.