Can endometriosis be detected early with a blood test? Why a new study holds out hope

Endometriosis is one of the major benign gynaecological disorders among Indian women, too,  leading to infertility and chronic pelvic pain. According to Dr Neelam Suri, senior consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, a simple blood test could also encourage more women to seek diagnosis, particularly in conservative communities where invasive procedures might be met with resistance. “Such a test, once approved for use, can also help with detection in places where advanced medical facilities are scarce,” she says. Listen in:

Why is this research important for Indian women?

Many Indian women face barriers in accessing gynaecological care, including stigma around menstrual health, limited access to specialists and financial constraints. A blood test would provide a non-invasive, potentially more affordable diagnostic tool compared to current methods like laparoscopy. The test could be integrated into routine health check-ups.

What’s the status of endometriosis in India?

Studies suggest that approximately 25-30% of Indian women of reproductive age may be affected, with higher rates in urban areas. The disease significantly impacts both personal and professional lives, leading to substantial economic losses through reduced productivity and increased healthcare costs. It is a leading cause of infertility.

Does the late diagnosis of endometriosis in women impact their health?

The late diagnosis of endometriosis can have severe consequences. A woman would have already had extensive adhesions and scarring, chronic pelvic pain, a higher risk of infertility, depression, anxiety and  a reduced effectiveness of treatment options. Studies show that the average delay in diagnosis can be 7-12 years, during which the condition can progress significantly.

This delay can also lead to the development of central sensitization, when the nervous system becomes increasingly responsive to pain signals, making pain management more challenging.

What are symptoms of endometriosis? 

Though some women may be asymptomatic, primary symptoms are severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) that worsen over time, chronic pelvic pain between periods, pain during or after sexual intercourse, painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular periods, fatigue and low energy levels, gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea, lower back pain that may radiate down the legs, difficulty conceiving or infertility, nausea and vomiting during menstruation.

The severity of symptoms doesn’t always correlate with the extent of the disease — some women with mild endometriosis may experience severe symptoms, while others with extensive disease might have minimal symptoms. Symptoms often worsen during menstruation and can significantly impact daily activities, work performance, and overall quality of life.

What about current treatments? 

Treatment for endometriosis is typically individualized based on symptoms severity, desire for pregnancy, and other factors. Available treatments include medical management, pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal treatments (birth control pills, progestins), GnRH agonists and antagonists, aromatase inhibitors, surgical options like laparoscopic excision of endometrial lesions and hysterectomy as a last resort.