Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, often causing debilitating pain, fertility issues, and a range of other symptoms. Despite its widespread impact, diagnosing endometriosis has long been a challenge, with many women enduring invasive procedures and lengthy delays before receiving a definitive diagnosis. Now, a groundbreaking new development in medical research is offering hope. French scientists have developed a non-invasive test that could revolutionise the way we diagnose and manage endometriosis, allowing for earlier detection, more accurate results, and less physical and emotional strain on the women who suffer from it. This breakthrough represents a major step forward in women’s health and could transform the lives of those struggling with this often-misunderstood condition. Below, everything we know about the Ziwig Endotest.
The test will be available on the NHS in England and Wales
As of July 2026, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has green-lit two tests for use in England and Wales: EndoSure and Endotest.
The draft recommendation has approved the tests for use for three years. After those years have elapsed, evidence will be collected on how well they work and they could be green-lit for permanent use on the NHS.
What is the Endotest?
The Ziwig Endotest is the world's first saliva-based diagnostic test for endometriosis, that uses Next Generation Sequencing of microRNAs with Artificial Intelligence.
Typically, it takes nine years for a woman to receive an endometriosis diagnosis, often requiring invasive examinations and exploratory surgery to get there. The Ziwig Endotest is designed to allow for the early detection of the disease in patients between the ages of 18 and 43 years who are clinically suspected to have endometriosis. Symptoms that could indicate endometriosis include chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea, pelvic pain outside menstruation, pain during bowel movements or urination, and infertility.
How does it work?
While a doctor is required to order the Ziwig Endotest, patients with suspected endometriosis can carry out the saliva sample collection themselves.
The test must be requested by a doctor although the saliva sample collection can be carried out by the patient as a self-collect sample or under the supervision of her doctor or healthcare professional. The sample is then analysed in a fully automated laboratory, which enhances accuracy. Results are expected in around 3–4 weeks after submission.
How to access one
You'll need to order a saliva-based test for endometriosis via your GP or a gynaecologist. They will be able to confirm if the test is right for you (for example, it's only available for women aged 18 to 43).
If the test is deemed right for you, you'll need to obtain a prescription (the doctor must officially request the test and complete the test requisition paperwork) and locate a provider. In the UK, tests can be coordinated through approved providers, or ordered via clinics like Repose Healthcare. In Ireland, you'll need to find a registered partner clinic using the Endotest.ie Clinic Finder.
Once you've taken the test and the sample is analysed, your results will be returned to your doctor in about 3–4 weeks.
Note: The Ziwig Endotest is currently not available in Australia. To request it, you must travel to a country where it is approved (such as the UK, Germany, or Switzerland). A local or overseas doctor must request the kit, but the saliva sample can be collected under clinical supervision.
Where is it currently available?
Ziwig Endotest is currently available in various countries, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, and Germany.
There's no word yet on if and when the test will arrive in Australia, however plans for immediate expansion include Hungary, Belgium, Luxembourg, Kuwait, Qatar, and Israel.
