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Endometriosis touches the lives of millions of women around the globe, often bringing along pain and a bunch of other tough symptoms. For many, surgery feels like the best shot at getting relief.
But a big question that pops up is: How quickly can endometriosis come back after surgery? Knowing what to expect after your operation can help you make smart choices and take charge of your health journey.
Is endometriosis surgery a permanent fix?
Oh, how we wish it were a simple "yes" to this question! Unfortunately, endometriosis surgery isn't typically a one-and-done solution.
The typical surgery for endometriosis usually involves a procedure called laparoscopy, where a surgeon makes small incisions and uses a camera to find and remove the troublesome tissue. In some cases, more extensive surgery might be needed to excise larger areas of endometrial growths or scar tissue. These surgeries are done to help reduce pain, improve fertility, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Another option is a hysterectomy, which is a more extensive surgery that removes the uterus. This can be really effective for managing endometriosis, especially in severe cases where other treatments haven’t worked. However, it’s not offered as often because it’s a major procedure and means you won’t be able to have children anymore. Most women and their doctors try less invasive surgeries first before considering a hysterectomy. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider about all the options to find what’s best for you.
As Dr. Caledonia Buckheit explains, "Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy is typically what's recommended when you're having a hysterectomy, which means removing the uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. In some cases, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy might be recommended (removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries), along with a total hysterectomy."
While surgery can provide significant relief and improve quality of life for many women, it's not a guaranteed permanent fix. Endometriosis is a chronic condition, which means it can be stubborn and persistent.
Surgery can clear things up for a while, but there's always a chance it might grow back. Whether endometriosis comes back depends on things like how bad it was, how much the surgery could address, and your own overall health.
The good news? Even if it's not permanent, surgery can still offer substantial relief and buy you precious time without symptoms.
How long does it take to heal internally after endometriosis surgery?
Healing after endometriosis surgery isn't an overnight process — your body needs time to recover. Generally, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for internal healing after laparoscopic surgery, but it can take as little as 1 to 2 weeks. However, everyone's body is different, and some women might need more time.
During this time, your body is busy healing and calming down inflammation, so it's crucial to be kind to your body — this is the time to pamper yourself a bit.
Rest when you need to, eat nutritious foods, and follow your doctor's post-operative instructions, which might include taking your medications, going to follow-up appointments, and slowly getting back to your regular activities.
Taking care of yourself properly can help lower the chances of endometriosis coming back too soon. Your body has been through a lot, so give it the TLC it deserves!
Why am I still in pain after endometriosis surgery?
If you're still experiencing pain after surgery, you're not alone. It can be frustrating and disheartening, especially when you had high hopes for relief. There could be several reasons for ongoing pain.
Firstly, remember that healing takes time. Some discomfort in the weeks following surgery is normal. However, if pain persists beyond the expected recovery period, it's worth discussing with your doctor.
Sometimes, not all endometriosis lesions can be removed during surgery. These remaining lesions (sometimes called “residual endometrial tissue”) might continue to cause pain. In other cases, the pain could be due to adhesions (scar tissue) that form after surgery.
Endometriosis can also mess with your nerves, so even after surgery removes the affected tissue, you might still feel some lingering nerve-related aches.
Plus, if there's ongoing inflammation in your pelvic area, it can keep you feeling uncomfortable.
It's also possible that the pain is coming from a different source altogether. Conditions like adenomyosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), interstitial cystitis, pelvic floor dysfunction, and other musculoskeletal problems can coexist with endometriosis and cause similar symptoms.
Can endometriosis flare up after surgery?
Yes, unfortunately, endometriosis can flare up after surgery. These flare-ups can happen for various reasons. Sometimes, it's because not all of the endometriosis was removed during surgery. Other times, it might be new endometriosis growth.
Flare-ups can be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, other health conditions, or even certain foods. If you experience a flare-up, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help you manage symptoms and explore additional treatment options if needed.
What are the odds of endometriosis coming back after laparoscopy?
The chance of endometriosis returning after laparoscopy varies from person to person. Studies have shown that recurrence rates can range from around 15-35% within eight years after surgery. These numbers might seem high, but remember that they also mean that many women do experience long-term relief.
Factors that can influence recurrence include the severity of the endometriosis before surgery, whether all visible lesions were removed, and the type of post-surgical treatment. Some studies suggest that using hormonal treatments after surgery can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
How fast does endometriosis come back after surgery?
The speed at which endometriosis might return after surgery can vary widely. For some women, it might be a matter of months, while for others, it could be years. On average, studies suggest that recurrence often happens within 2 to 5 years after surgery, but more studies are needed for a more accurate timeline.
However, it's important to note that these are just averages. Your experience might be different. Some women enjoy many years of relief, while others might experience symptoms sooner. Regular follow-ups with your doctor can help monitor your condition and catch any recurrence early.
It’s also worth keeping tabs on how you’re feeling in your body after your laparoscopy — early detection of returning symptoms can lead to timely interventions, potentially slowing down the progression of the disease.
How do I know if my endometriosis is coming back?
Recognizing the signs of returning endometriosis can help you seek treatment early. Some signs to watch out for include:
- Return of pelvic pain, especially during your period
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful period cramps or longer periods
- Increased difficulty getting pregnant
- Painful bowel movements or urination, particularly during your period
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation, especially during your period
If you notice these symptoms returning or worsening, it's important to consult with your doctor. They can help determine if your endometriosis is recurring and discuss appropriate next steps.
Endometriosis can be really tough to deal with, but getting to know it better can help you take charge of your health.
Surgery might give you some much-needed relief, but it's good to keep in mind that endometriosis can come back, sometimes pretty quickly. By staying up-to-date, speaking up for yourself, and taking care of both your body and mind, you can handle life after surgery with strength and confidence.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. With the right support and information, managing endometriosis is definitely achievable.
Tassia O'Callaghan is an experienced content writer and strategist, having written about a vast range of topics from chemical regulations to parenting, for brands like Peanut App Ltd, Scary Mommy, Tally Workspace, and Office Christmas. She's an advocate for realistic sustainable living, supporting small businesses (author of A-Z of Marketing for Small Businesses), and equity across all walks of life. Follow her on LinkedIn or TikTok, or see more of her work on Authory or her website.