New research has found that hormonal contraceptive pills could be masking key symptoms of two critical conditions affecting women’s health; endometriosisand polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). With red flags going under the radar, thousands of women could be facing delayed diagnoses that may have long-term consequenceson their health and fertility.

The symptoms of these two conditions are similar to side effectsof hormonal contraception or may be covered up by the pill, such as heavy or irregular periods and pains.

Research from TFP Fertility found two thirds, or 66%, of women with PCOS or endometriosis say hormonal contraception delayed their diagnosis. Younger women are bearing the brunt of this issue, as research showed 81% of those between the ages of 25 and 34 believed contraception delayed their diagnosis.

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Most women with PCOS are diagnosed between 18 and 34, while almost a third of endometriosis patients aren’t diagnosed until after 35 according to the survey of 2,000 UK women.

Beyond fertility symptoms and impacts, both conditions can take a toll on daily life and other health conditions. PCOS can increase the risk of type two diabetes and cardiovascular disease while also causing a variety of physical symptoms that take a toll on mental health such as weight gain, hair loss from the head, excessive hair growth elsewhere and acne.

The pain caused by endometriosis can be debilitating, preventing people from going about their daily routine. Low mode, anxiety and fatigue are also common symptoms. Both conditions have a big impact on fertility, with more than half of women having to changing their plans for having children due to their diagnosis.

Those that do try to have children may face a longer process than expected with only 36% able to conceive naturally according to the research. Almost a quarter required fertility treatment in order to conceive.

Dr Justin Chu, medical director at TFP Fertility, said: “These findings show just how far we still have to go in raising awareness of gynaecological conditions like PCOS and endometriosis.

“Too often, symptoms are overlooked or misunderstood, with women left waiting years for answers. Delayed diagnoses mean delayed treatment – and for many women, this can mean putting their dreams of parenthood on hold.”

There is no cure for either condition, but some treatments may help to manage symptoms. For PCOS patients, treatment may involve taking hormonal contraception to regulate periods.

Endometriosis patients may get prescription painkillers to help take the edge off their condition. Surgery may also be an option for some to remove areas of endometriosis, parts of certain organs if they are affected by endometriosis or a hysterectomy.

More information on endometriosisand PCOScan be found on the NHS website. Support is also available through charities like Endometriosis UK and Verity.