Affecting around 10% of women worldwide, endometriosis brings chronic pain, emotional stress, and fertility challenges to those it touches. A condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus and may involve the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs in the abdominal area. 

Endometriosis is managed with a variety of treatments, from medication to surgery for many. It's important to know what you have to choose from, and if you're considering surgery, it's best to be well informed. We at Femmenest are here to help you on your endometriosis journey and offer resources and personalized guidance to ensure you are making the best choices.

Who can have the Surgery for Endometriosis?

Endometriosis surgery is often recommended in the following cases:

• When chronic pelvic pain interferes with daily life.
• If medicines no longer help relieve symptoms.
• For those with endometriosis-related infertility.
• When the symptoms are severe and lifestyle changes or medications don’t help.

Surgery can provide a great deal of relief but is a choice based on individual health, symptoms, and extent of endometrial tissue growth. Surgery may be an option if your healthcare provider can help determine that. 

Types Of Endometriosis Surgery

There are two primary surgical approaches to treat endometriosis:

Laparoscopy: It is a minimally invasive surgery usually done to cure mild to moderate cases. A small incision is made, and a laparoscope (a tiny tube that has a camera in it) is inserted to find and remove endometriosis tissue. This method tends to recover more quickly than other approaches, and patients can return to normal activities in a couple of weeks.

Laparotomy: In severe cases, laparotomy (open surgery) may be recommended. In this surgery, the surgeon makes a larger incision in the abdomen, allowing them direct access to the area affected. This method has a longer recovery period but may be needed if there is a lot of the endometriosis or if laparoscopy is not possible.

What to Expect: Preparing for and Undergoing Endometriosis Surgery

Preparation: Before surgery, your health care provider will direct you to prepare for surgery, which may include fasting, arranging postoperative care, or temporarily stopping medications. It can also help with recovery if you quit smoking and stock up on post-op essentials.

Procedure: While the surgeon does this, you’ll be under general anesthesia, and the surgeon will make small incisions to remove endometriosis tissue during laparoscopy. In cases of laparotomy, the process will take a larger incision and a longer stay in the hospital.

Post-Surgery: Fatigue lasts most people for a few days, and you recover gradually. Laparoscopy patients can usually go back to their daily activities in two weeks, while laparotomy patients will take several weeks to recover.

The decision to have surgery is a personal one and needs to be planned carefully and supported. Femmenest can connect you with professionals who provide endometriosis care and can help you discuss your surgical options, and they can help you every step of the way.

Cost of Surgery for Endometriosis

The cost of endometriosis surgery varies widely based on type of surgery, location, and insurance coverage. Although laparoscopy may be less costly because it is minimally invasive, laparotomy can be more costly. After surgery, some patients may have to pay for consultations, follow-ups, and prescribed hormone treatment. Femmenest provides access to financial resources and the help to understand insurance coverage to ensure endometriosis care remains affordable and accessible.