What challenges do GPs face in diagnosing and managing endometriosis in general practice?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition characterized by pelvic pain and subfertility. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women, affecting health and quality of life. The pathway to diagnosis of endometriosis is often difficult but usually commences in primary care with general practitioners (GPs). GPs also play a major role in managing this chronic condition throughout a woman’s reproductive life. However there has been limited research on the challenges faced by GPs in the diagnosis and management of endometriosis. This qualitative study, will involve interviews with GPs to seek their views and perspectives on the challenges they face diagnosing and managing endometriosis and potential solutions. The results will help inform a major project underway within the SPHERE Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health in Primary Care focused on improving endometriosis management in primary care. The SPHERE CRE is the first dedicated Centre to lead research that is aimed at improving the quality, safety, and capacity of primary health care services to achieve better outcomes in women’s sexual and reproductive health. Students working within SPHERE will be supported by a vibrant research team consisting of Post Docs, PhD students, academic registrars and honours students. They will also have the opportunity to be part of a large, multidisciplinary, collaborative team of investigators, which includes prominent national and international researchers and experts working in women’s health, general practice, pharmacy, nursing, epidemiology, knowledge translation, health economics, and policy development.