Script: Pursuing an Endometriosis Diagnosis

Searching for a chronic illness diagnosis can be TOUGH. You have to be your own advocate and ask for what you want. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely to come across a doctor who will bring up a possible endometriosis diagnosis unless you do. I expect that the same is true for PCOS, both of these conditions being very difficult to spot unless you’re paying close attention and asking the right questions.

As someone who has gone through the process myself, I wanted to share my script for how to approach this conversation. I recommend bringing it up at an appointment with your OBGYN, this can just be a regular annual visit!

Here is my script for chronic illness girlies for a doctor’s appointment when you’re pursuing an endometriosis diagnosis. (From a fellow endo warrior who’s been through it all)

When your doctor/obgyn asks if you have any questions or concerns:

“I would like like to be evaluated for endometriosis. I was wondering if you could walk me through my options for pursuing this diagnosis and treatment. I’ve done some research and I’ve been experiencing symptoms of (severe cramping, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding/spotting, digestive issues, etc) that take a huge toll on my body and make daily life very difficult. These symptoms are consistent and recurring and I’ve been experiencing them for (X amount of time). What are my options for next steps?”

Before doing this, you should know that the primary route to diagnosis for endo requires laparoscopic surgery. Your doctor will probably suggest some other testing and/or refer you to a more specialized provider such as a gynecological surgeon first.

If your doctor dismisses your concerns or writes off your pain as “normal,” this may not be the provider for you. If that’s the case, you can request a referral to another provider, or search for another provider on your own. Period pain is NOT normal!

Feel free to use this script for any diagnosis you might be pursuing, just input your symptoms and concerns as you need to!

And, if you’re needing a little more support with this process, now is the best time to get started with a therapist who really gets it. Fill out my contact form here to get started with a consult call today!

Elizabeth Allen, LCPAT, LGPC, ATR-BC

Creative Pathways Counseling LLC