Repérage et prise en charge de l’endométriose en soins primaires par les médecins généralistes

Abstract

ObjectiveAnalyze knowledge and practices of general practitioners concerning the screening and treatment of endometriosis in primary care. MethodsObservational study carried out with general practitioners in a healthcare area using an anonymous online questionnaire about symptoms, screening and their management of endometriosis. Responses were analyzed according to the general practitioners’ sex, age and practice in gynecology. ResultsSixty-nine general practitioners (69/458 ; 15.1%) responded. Women (18.4% vs. 9.7% : P=0.02), between 40 and 59 years old (26.5% vs. 0 ; P<0.01), with additional training in gynecology (27.2% vs. 3.0%; P<0.01) had significant activity in gynecology. Typical symptoms of endometriosis were experienced by 76.8% general practitioners, but only 36% “often” or “always” referred to endometriosis when faced with these symptoms. Additional training in gynecology, mostly carried out by women, between 40 and 59 years old, had a positive impact on the evocation of endometriosis in the face of these symptoms. If endometriosis was suspected, 72.5% GPs immediately ordered pelvic ultrasound and 85.5% for analgesics, but 42% referred the woman to a gynecologist. ConclusionThe general practitioner has a key role in the screening and initial management of endometriosis in primary care. The practice and continuing education of general practitioners in gynecology has a significant impact in improving the screening and initial management of endometriosis.