To ask the Minister of Health to detail any progress made by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in implementing the NICE guideline NG73 that patients with suspected endometriosis should (i) be offered a transvaginal ultrasound, including where pelvic or abdominal examination is normal; (ii) remain under consideration for further investigation following a normal ultrasound; and (iii) be referred to a specialist endometriosis service where deep endometriosis is suspected.

The Northern HSC Trust advises that it aligns its clinical practice with the principles set out in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guideline NG73 on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.

Transvaginal ultrasound

Women referred with suspected endometriosis are assessed in line with current clinical guidance. Where appropriate, a transvaginal ultrasound scan is offered to support diagnosis, including in cases where clinical examination findings are normal.

Further investigation following a normal ultrasound

The Northern HSC Trust advises that a normal ultrasound result does not exclude the possibility of endometriosis. Patients who continue to experience symptoms suggestive of endometriosis despite normal imaging findings remain under clinical review and may undergo further assessment. Depending on the individual’s symptoms and clinical history, this may include additional imaging, medical management, ongoing monitoring or consideration of diagnostic laparoscopy where clinically appropriate.

Referral to a specialist endometriosis service

Where imaging or clinical assessment suggests deep endometriosis, including disease affecting the pelvic organs including bowel, bladder or ureters, patients are referred to the specialist endometriosis centres in accordance with regional referral arrangements.