Endometriosis pain diary

Period pain that stops you doing everyday things is not normal. Note this cycle's pain here and get a clear summary to take to your GP.

Your details

Your period pain summary

7 / 10

worth taking to your GP

Days with pain this cycle4
Days missed (work, school, plans)1

Period pain that stops you doing things is not something you have to put up with. NICE guidance lists painful periods that affect daily life, pain with sex, and pain with bowel or bladder around periods as reasons to think about endometriosis. A diary of two or three cycles helps your GP.

Sudden severe pain, pain with fever, or pain and a positive pregnancy test: call 111 or 999. Otherwise book a GP appointment and take this summary.

The working

What makes it worth raising

A worst pain of 7 out of 10 over 4 days, with a day missed, is worth taking to your GP. NICE lists period pain that affects daily life, deep pain during sex and pain with bowel or bladder around periods as symptoms to consider endometriosis.

Your diary

What to note each cycle

Pain score each day, and where it is
Painkillers taken and whether they helped
Days missed or plans cancelled
Bleeding pattern and other symptoms

Getting diagnosed

Persistence helps

Diagnosis in the UK takes on average about 8 years. NICE says GPs can offer pain relief and hormonal treatment while waiting, and refer to a gynaecologist if symptoms persist. Endometriosis UK has a helpline and support groups.

Read with care

What this cannot tell you

DiagnosisOnly a specialist can confirm endometriosis.
Other causesFibroids, infections and adenomyosis cause pain too.
EmergenciesSudden severe pain needs urgent help.

Questions

Common questions

Is it normal for period pain to stop you going to work?

No. Pain that disrupts your life is worth seeing a GP about.

What are the signs of endometriosis?

Painful periods, pain with sex, pain pooing and trouble getting pregnant.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Through symptoms, scans and sometimes keyhole surgery.

Sources

Last checked 21 October 2026. Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we will fix it.

Support when you need it

Contact your midwife or GP any time you are worried, and call NHS 111 if you cannot reach them. If a date or a result brings up difficult feelings, Tommy's and the Miscarriage Association offer kind, free support.