Artificial intelligence is set to transform the diagnosis of endometriosis, reducing the average wait time from six-and-a-half years to less than 12 months, thanks to groundbreaking research by an Australian scientist.
Breakthrough AI technology for endometriosis
Associate Professor Jodie Avery, a public health researcher and Research Co-Lead of Chronic Reproductive Diseases at the Robinson Research Institute, has developed AI technology that could revolutionise how endometriosis is detected. The condition affects approximately one in seven Australian women, yet diagnosis often takes years and involves invasive surgery.
Professor Avery's approach combines advanced imaging techniques, including transvaginal ultrasound and MRI scans, with machine learning. By training AI systems to recognise patterns across both imaging types, diagnostic accuracy is significantly enhanced.
"We essentially use one imaging modality to teach the other what to look for," Professor Avery explains. "That means a woman may eventually only need one scan, but with far more diagnostic value."
Reducing diagnostic delays
Currently, an endometriosis diagnosis takes an average of six-and-a-half years. This new method aims to cut that delay to under one year, allowing women to receive earlier validation and treatment.
Professor Avery's early findings also reveal a major challenge: many women have endometriosis without realising it. In a screening study of 100 women with no known diagnosis, researchers found that 20 per cent had the condition despite reporting no symptoms. Others experience symptoms like bloating or irregular periods but do not associate them with endometriosis.
"That lack of awareness is a huge issue," Professor Avery says. "By the time some women are diagnosed – often when trying to conceive later in life – the condition may have already progressed."
Benefits of early diagnosis
Earlier diagnosis can open the door to better long-term management strategies, including medical treatment, physiotherapy, and fertility planning options such as egg freezing. While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, early intervention can significantly improve quality of life.
The condition can be debilitating, particularly for younger women. Professor Avery notes that many miss school, university, or work due to severe pain and fatigue, often without formal recognition of their condition.
"There's still a legacy of dismissing women's pain," she says. "Previous generations were often told severe period pain was normal. Now we know that's not always the case."
Systemic change in South Australia
In South Australia, momentum is building for systemic changes to enable earlier diagnosis. This includes the potential development of specialised endometriosis care centres, expanded pelvic pain services, and increased funding for research and support programs.
"A dedicated centre could provide imaging, medical care, physiotherapy, and psychological support all in one place," Professor Avery says. "It would also allow us to integrate research directly into patient care."
Professor Avery's work aims to ensure women are diagnosed earlier, validated sooner, and better supported throughout their lives.
"I want to change the lives of women with endometriosis," she says. "We need to reduce that diagnostic delay and make sure women know their symptoms are real and deserve attention."
