Although hormone therapy is effective in reducing or eliminating the symptoms of endometriosis, it also prevents pregnancy. For patients who desire a pregnancy, surgery to remove implants may increase the chances of success. Surgical treatment is indicated as well in patients faced with severe pain caused by endometriosis.
Conservative surgery removes endometrial growths, scar tissue and adhesions without removing reproductive organs. This procedure can be performed by laparoscopy or through traditional abdominal surgery in severe cases. During laparoscopic surgery, a thin tube (laparoscope) with a laser and cautery – an instrument that destroys tissue by burning – is inserted through a small incision is made below the navel.
Hysterectomy
In severe cases of endometriosis, it might be required a total hysterectomy with removal of both ovaries (oophorectomy). This operation is the last option, especially for women of childbearing age. Hysterectomy leeds to early menopause and after the intervention women can not get pregnant.
There is no ideal treatment for all patients, but most women suffering from endometriosis find a solution to reduce symptoms. If pain persists or if finding an effective treatment takes some time, it may take some measures to reduce discomfort. Hot baths, electric pillows or other sources of heat applied to the lower abdomen helps to relax muscles and reduce pelvic cramping and menstrual pain.
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