Endometriosis (or “endo” for short) happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus decides to go rogue and grow outside where it’s definitely not welcome—like on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even other organs.
What Are The Symptoms Of Endo?
- Crippling period pain
- Pain during sex
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Digestive drama (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea—hello, endo belly)
- Fatigue that hits like a truck
- Fertility struggles
The Diagnosis Struggle is Real
On average, it takes 7 to 10 years to get diagnosed. That’s a whole decade of dealing with pain and uncertainty while being told to ‘just take some Panadol.’ If this has been your story, we are so sorry - it’s not cool.
So what happens when you go in for Endo surgery?
The most common surgical approach is laparoscopy (minimally invasive keyhole surgery), though in severe cases, a laparotomy (open surgery) may be necessary.
Before Surgery: Preparation
1. Pre-op Meeting
- You’ll meet with your gynaecologist/surgeon to discuss symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals.
- Your surgeon will explain the risks and benefits, including the possibility of removing endometriotic lesions, cysts, adhesions, or even the uterus and ovaries if necessary.
2. Pre-op Tests
- Blood tests, ultrasound, MRI, or other imaging scans may be done to assess the severity and location of endometriosis.
- You may be advised to stop certain medications or start a bowel prep if deep infiltrating endometriosis is suspected.
3. Fasting and Admission
- You’ll be asked to not eat or drink for 6 - 12 hours before surgery.
- When you arrive at the hospital you’ll be asked to do a pregnancy test and have your blood pressure taken before changing into a surgical gown.
- An IV line will be inserted into your arm to administer fluids, antibiotics, and anesthesia.
During Surgery: The Procedure
1. Anesthesia & Incision
- You will be given general anesthesia and will drift off to sleep.
- Your surgeon will make a small incision (5–10mm) near your bellybutton .
- Your abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) to create space for the surgeon to see and operate.
2. Inserting the Laparoscope
- A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) is inserted through the navel incision to provide a clear view of your pelvic area.
- Additional small incisions (usually 2–3) may be made in your lower abdomen for surgical instruments.
3. Identifying Endometriosis & Removing Endo
- Your surgeon will examine your uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, and peritoneum for signs of endometriosis, scar tissue, and ovarian cysts. Your surgeon will remove any signs of endometrial-like tissue by excision (cutting it out) or by ablation (laser). If there are any cysts, they will be drained or cut out.
Recovery
1. Immediately After Surgery
- You’ll be taken to the recovery room and monitored for vital signs.
- You may feel groggy, nauseous, or experience shoulder pain from trapped CO₂ gas.
2. Hospital Stay & Discharge
- Most laparoscopic surgeries are day procedures, meaning you will likely get to go home the same day.In more complex cases (e.g., deep endometriosis or hysterectomy), an overnight stay may be required.
3. At-Home Recovery
- You will need to keep on top of pain with pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen and to look after your incision areas to ensure you don’t get an infection. You will want to rest for a week and avoid exercise for at least three weeks.
