women's health


 
Overview
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Minimally Invasive Surgery
 

Endometriosis

  • Overview
  • Talk to your Doctor
  • Resources

Endometriosis

With endometriosis, cells that usually line the uterus begin to grow on the outside, either on the surface of the uterus or on other organs. The endometrial growths can be large or small. Because these cells respond to hormones (as they normally do inside the uterus), this can cause pain, irregular bleeding, and, in 30% to 40% of patients, infertility.82

It's estimated that up to 10% of women have endometriosis in their reproductive years, but many don't have symptoms.83 Often, a diagnosis is only made when diagnostic laparoscopy is performed for persistent abdominal pain of unknown origin. While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there are ways to eliminate or reduce your symptoms. Treatments include pain medicine, hormone treatment, and nutritional therapy. But if you have severe symptoms, or your symptoms are unresponsive to other treatment methods, surgery may be the best option. This is a decision only you and your doctor can make based on what is best for your situation.

If your doctor does recommend surgery, it's important to know that there may be a range of procedure options available to you. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques where only small incisions are required can be used. These methods typically reduce the pain and scarring and may help you recover more quickly.

Site References

Talking to Your Doctor about Endometriosis Treatment Options

It's important for you to learn as much as possible about your condition and treatment options, and your doctor is your best resource. Here are some questions for you to get the conversation started:

Questions About Endometriosis
  • What is endometriosis?
  • How do I cope with a condition that doesn't have a cure?
  • Will endometriosis affect my ability to have children?
  • What are the long-term health effects of endometriosis?
  • Will surgery be necessary for me?
  • If endometriosis removal surgery is necessary, are minimally invasive procedures an option?

Once you've been referred to a surgeon, it's important to continue the conversation about your procedure. Only your surgeon can decide whether or not you're a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure, but you should feel comfortable getting the best information.

Finding a Surgeon

To locate a surgeon in your area experienced in minimally invasive procedures for endometriosis, use our Find a Physician tool.

Endometriosis Resources

Learn more about endometriosis and possible treatment options with these resources.

Endometriosis.org

Endometriosis.org delivers news on endometriosis, research into the disease, and information about current evidence-based treatment options for endometriosis. The website provides links to national support groups around the world and facilitates collaboration between these groups.

Find a Surgeon

Whether you choose to have conventional surgery or to have a Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), it is important that you have a surgeon who is experienced and qualified to perform the procedure.

To locate a surgeon in your area experienced with MIS, click here.