GPs are urged to suspect endometriosis in all girls and women presenting with debilitating pelvic pain, under the first Australian clinical practice guideline.

The evidence-based guidance, designed to reduce diagnostic delay, was developed by a RANZCOG-led expert working group, including GPs, and funded by the Federal Government as part of its National Action Plan for Endometriosis released two years ago.

It recommends doctors suspect — and immediately start managing — endometriosis in all females, including those under 17, who present with one or more typical symptoms, including persistent pelvic pain and period pain that affects daily activities and quality of life.

Other red flags for investigation are period-related or cyclical GI or urinary symptoms, especially painful bowel movements or blood in the urine, deep pain during and after sex, and infertility associated with any of the other typical symptoms, the guideline says.