For many women in the UK and throughout the world, obtaining a timely and accurate diagnosis for endometriosis remains a significant challenge. Traditional pathways involve lengthy waiting lists, negative diagnostic testing, invasive procedures and years of uncertainty before answers are reached. The EndoSure Test represents an important development in women’s health by offering a totally non-invasive method of assessment that can support faster clinical decision-making and provide you with the peace of mind of a highly accurate diagnosis.
This guide provides a clear and detailed overview of how the EndoSure Test works, its accuracy and what patients can expect from the full process, including how results are communicated.
What Is the EndoSure Test?
The EndoSure Test is a non-invasive diagnostic tool designed to help identify special biomarkers or patterns consistent with endometriosis. Unlike traditional diagnostic methods, which often rely on surgical investigation or other invasive diagnostic tests like transvaginal ultrasound, EndoSure uses external electrodes placed on the abdomen to detect physiological signals specifically linked to the condition.
The test is performed in a clinic setting, does not require anesthesia and involves no internal examination or testing of body fluids. It is quickly becoming an important early step for women seeking clarity about symptoms such as abdominal or pelvic pain, heavy periods, bloating or fertility concerns.
How the EndoSure Test Works
Although the technology behind EndoSure is sophisticated, the underlying concept is straightforward and patient friendly.
Myoelectrical Activity and Endometriosis
The organs and smooth muscle tissues within the abdomen and pelvis generate natural electrical signals as part of normal functioning. Published research demonstrated that endometriosis tissue secretes substances called neurotransmitters that influence and disturb these patterns. This frequently results in abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, painful bowel movements, constipation, diarrhea, and menstrual pain.
Recording the Signals
During the test, small electrodes are placed on the skin of the abdomen. These electrodes detect myoelectrical activity produced by the gastrointestinal system and surrounding structures. The process is entirely external, painless and comparable to wearing ECG pads.
Patients drink water until they feel full, which helps stimulate the endometriosis induced patterns of activity. The electrodes then record signals over a period while the patient remains reclining in a comfortable position.
Data Analysis
The recorded data is analysed using a proprietary algorithm that compares the patient’s signal pattern to proven patterns associated with endometriosis. This analysis supports clinicians in determining whether the results indicate a likelihood of endometriosis or whether alternative causes or testing should be considered.
How Accurate Is the EndoSure Test?
EndoSure has demonstrated strong performance in identifying patterns associated with endometriosis. While the exact figures may vary between studies, research consistently shows:
- High sensitivity, meaning it is effective at identifying individuals who likely have endometriosis
- High specificity, meaning it is effective at identifying individuals who likely do not
In practical terms, this enables clinicians to make more confident decisions earlier in the diagnostic journey. No diagnostic test can offer a 100% definitive diagnosis with or without surgical confirmation and histology; however, EndoSure is a robust decision-support tool that more and more clinicians have come to depend on to help their patients. It is particularly valuable for women who have symptoms suggestive of endometriosis but normal imaging results.
Clinicians typically use the EndoSure Test alongside medical history, symptom assessment and, where appropriate, ultrasound or MRI findings.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for the EndoSure Test?
EndoSure may be appropriate for a wide range of patients, including those who:
- Experience pelvic pain, painful menstruation or persistent bloating
- Complain of pain during intimate relations
- Have gastrointestinal symptoms that may overlap with endometriosis
- Struggle with fertility concerns
- Have inconclusive imaging results
- Prefer to avoid invasive diagnostic procedures where possible
- Seek a preliminary assessment to determine whether further investigation is warranted
- To determine disease response or recurrence after surgery or medication use
The test is suitable for both individuals beginning their diagnostic journey and those who have been searching for answers for years.
How to Prepare for the EndoSure Test
Preparation for the EndoSure Test is straightforward. Patients are generally advised to:
- Fast for 8 hours before the appointment
- Wear comfortable, lose fitting clothing that allows access to the abdomen
- Check the patient leaflet prior to the appointment, specifically regarding medication
These steps help ensure optimal signal quality and accurate results.
What to Expect During the Test
The EndoSure Test appointment typically lasts around one hour. The test itself takes approximately 45 minutes.
Patients can expect the following:
- A brief chat with the technician to answer a pain score questionnaire and to record current medications
- Placement of adhesive electrodes on the abdomen and respiratory belt applied over clothing
- A 10-minute baseline is recorded
- Consumption of water
- A comfortable 30-minute rest period while electrodes record the activity
- Removal of the electrodes and conclusion of the appointment
The experience is relaxed and non-invasive, and patients can resume normal activities immediately afterwards.
After the Test: What Happens Next?
Once the recording is complete, the data is uploaded and given/sent to the clinician associated with the EndoSure clinic. The clinician reviews the results and interprets them in the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture.
The result will be sent to the patient and their GP. The result will be added to the patients’ NHS medical records.
The next step can be one of the following.
- Discuss the result with your GP.
- Arrange a consultation with the clinician who reviewed your result. Together you will be able to decide if additional testing is needed, and what treatment pathway is best for you.
There is no recovery period, no discomfort and no restrictions following the appointment.
Understanding Your EndoSure Results
How results are presented may vary slightly depending on the clinic, but the overall process is consistent and transparent.
The timeframe for receiving results may also vary, but this is usually within 5 working days.
How Results Are Shared
Depending upon your clinic or clinician, you may schedule a call with the provider, have an appointment face to face, or receive it via email. You will always be sent a copy of the report for your records and to share with other physicians.
Interpreting the Outcome
The EndoSure results are presented to you as two different calculated numbers. These numbers are calculated from the area under the curve. as seen on your RSA or Running Spectral Analysis.:
- The signal pattern of the RSA graph shows the amount of abnormal contractility caused by the endometriosis over time and frequency. On this graph you will see red lines, which are during your resting baseline period of the test, and blue lines which are during the stimulated portion of the test after you drink water.
- The Probability Index Score of Endometriosis: is the first score with a scale of 0 to 1.0. A score of 0.5 and above means you have a positive test indicative of the presence of endometriosis.
- The Activity Index Score: is the second score with a range from 0 until 1.0. This score is a measurement of the activity of your disease if present. This score will change in response to successful surgery or medical treatment. Scores 0.5 and higher are positive for endometriosis.
- If either score or both are 0.5 or higher this is a strong indication that you have endometriosis or adenomyosis. If both scores are negative, it is unlikely but not impossible, that you have the disease at the time of testing.
It is important to note that EndoSure test, just like any other test, cannot diagnose or exclude endometriosis with 100% certainty. What it does do in combination with other factors like symptoms, physical examination and other studies, is provide the strongest non-invasive evidence of the probability that you do or do not have the disease.
Next Steps After Receiving Your Result
Depending on the outcome and depending which path you choose to follow after the test ie GP or clinician, the following outcomes are possible.
- Refer the patient to a gynecologist
- Recommend further imaging
- Begin medical management, such as hormonal therapy, other measures including exercise, dietary treatment, vitamin therapy, or physical therapy
- Provide support for more invasive measures such as laparoscopic surgery
- Offer reassurance and explore alternative diagnoses if results suggest a different cause
The aim is to provide a clear and personalised plan based on the findings.
Where EndoSure Fits Within the Broader Diagnostic Pathway
EndoSure is the first test that should be done if you suspect that you might have endometriosis regardless of your symptoms.
It not a replacement for laparoscopy or other testing but acts as an important early-stage assessment that can reduce unnecessary surgical procedures and help prioritise those who need specialist care. It supports clinicians in identifying which patients are most likely to benefit from further intervention.
For many women, EndoSure represents the first meaningful progress after years of uncertainty.
Summary: A New Standard in Early Assessment
The EndoSure Test is transforming the landscape of women’s health by offering an accessible, non-invasive method of assessing the likelihood of endometriosis. It provides clinicians with valuable insight and gives patients a clearer direction at a much earlier stage than has previously been possible.
For those who have felt unheard or caught in long diagnostic delays, EndoSure offers a reassuring and scientifically robust first step toward understanding their symptoms and a never before available way to follow the success of surgical or medical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the test painful?
No, the test is completely non-invasive and painless.
Is it safe?
Yes. The test is external and uses non allergenic, dry-gel electrode pads on your abdomen for less than 1 hour. These pads are like pads used to monitor heart rate.
Will I still need surgery?
In some cases, yes. Laparoscopy with hsitology remains the definitive diagnostic method, but EndoSure can help determine whether surgery is necessary.
How soon will I receive my results?
Results are known immediately but due to UK regulations must be communicated to you by your specialist of clinician, typically within 5 working days of your test.
Are there any conditions which will interfere with the test results? Yes. If you have had recent bowel surgery, bowel obstruction, active bowel infection requiring antibiotics, or dysentery with acute diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, or you have an underlying inflammatory bowel disease that is no longer in remission you should not have the test until your symptoms or condition has normalised for 30 days.
May I continue my usual medications? You may remain on your normal medications unless you are taking anti-spasmodic for the bowel, laxatives, or bowel motility agents. Please check with the clinic or your clinician if you are unsure. You must discontinue any THC/Cannabis products for 2 weeks before your testing.
Will my GP receive a copy of the EndoSure Test result? Yes, a copy of the result will be sent back to your GP, and added to your NHS medical records.
Will my GP recognise the test result? This depends on your GP so it is best to speak to them directly. It is important to note that a copy of the result is sent back to the GP from a consultant gynecologist who specialises in endometriosis.