Laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that is characterised by cells from the lining of the womb being deposited in various tissues in the body but mainly in the pelvis (ovaries, tubes, bladder, bowel).

Endometriosis is a hormone-dependent condition. The exact prevalence of endometriosis is unknown but it is estimated to affect 2 in 10% of women of reproductive age and up to 50% of women with fertility problems.* It is a benign (non-cancerous) condition but it can have a great impact on the quality of life of the women affected by it.

Laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis starts from £2,804.*

Our fixed-price package prices include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. Our costs include all surgery fees and aftercare appointments with our Consultants.

However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant’s outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately. We provide fixed term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 14.9% APR.

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. More details on our flexible payment options can be found here.

*This is a guide price for patients who are paying for their own treatment. The actual cost of your treatment will be confirmed in writing at the time of booking.

Endometriosis commonly causes pain and occasionally infertility. Woman may experience endometriosis symptoms differently but usually endometriosis is characterised by cyclical pelvic pain that is pain that gets worse before or during the period.

Commonly women complain of the following symptoms:

• Lower back pain
• Pain radiating down the legs
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Pain on opening the bowels
• Pain on urination or frequency of urination
• Tiredness/lethargy
• Lower pelvic pain
• Bloating

Various studies have been done to assess the superiority of one technique over the other. They have shown that both techniques have similar benefits in treating pelvic pain. However, there is a concern that with the ablative method, deep endometriosis may be missed or left untreated.

Most women who undergo laparoscopic treatment of their endometriosis are able to be discharged home on the same day after being reviewed by a member of the healthcare team. Occasionally due to pain or difficulties in passing urine some women may have to stay overnight in the hospital. Women who have extensive excision (cutting out) of endometriosis may be advised by their gynaecologist to stay in the hospital for one night.

In the days following your laparoscopy you will be experiencing some discomfort in your tummy and around the wound sites. Simple pain killers should be sufficient to control these symptoms. Depending on the extent of the treatment undertaken during your laparoscopy, you should be able to return to your normal activities within one to two weeks.

* Reference: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology Guideline, Management of Women with Endometriosis, September 2013, 2. Eskenazi B and Warner ML. Epidemiology of endometriosis. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 1997; 24:235–258, 3. Meuleman C, Vandenabeele B, Fieuws S, Spiessens C, Timmerman D and D'Hooghe T. High prevalence of endometriosis in infertile women with normal ovulation and normospermic partners. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:68–74

**Reference: Kondo W, Bourdel N, Tamburro S, Cavoli D, Jardon K, Rabischong B, Botchorishvili R, Pouly J, Mage G and Canis M. Complications after surgery for deeply infiltrating pelvic endometriosis. BJOG 2011; 118:292–298

Content for this treatment has been provided by Mr Ilias Nikolopolous at The Park Hospital

Is endometriosis laparoscopy a major surgery?

At Circle Health Group, we consider laparoscopy for endometriosis to be a minimally invasive procedure rather than a major surgery. However, its complexity can vary:

• It's performed under general anaesthesia
• It typically involves 2-4 small incisions
• The procedure usually takes 1-3 hours, depending on the extent of endometriosis
• Most patients go home the same day or after one night in hospital

While it's not generally classified as major surgery, it's still an important procedure that requires careful preparation and recovery. Our experienced consultants will discuss the specifics of your case and ensure you're fully informed about what to expect.

How painful is a laparoscopy for endometriosis?

We prioritise your comfort during and after the procedure at Circle Health Group. Here's what you can expect:

• During the surgery: You'll be under general anaesthesia, so you won't feel any pain
• Immediately after: You may experience some discomfort as the anaesthesia wears off
• In the days following: Most patients describe the pain as moderate and manageable with painkillers
• Pain typically improves significantly within a few days to a week

Our team will provide you with appropriate pain management strategies to ensure your comfort during recovery. Remember, everyone's experience of pain is different, and we're here to support you throughout your recovery journey.

How long is recovery from laparoscopy for endometriosis?

Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, but at Circle Health Group, we generally advise:

• Most patients can return home the same day or after one night in hospital
• You should be able to return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks
• Full recovery, including return to more strenuous activities, typically takes 4-6 weeks
• Some patients may need longer if extensive excision was performed

We provide personalised aftercare advice to ensure you have the smoothest possible recovery. Your consultant will give you specific guidance based on your individual case and procedure.

What is the down time for laparoscopy for endometriosis?

At Circle Health Group, we understand that knowing your expected downtime is crucial for planning. Here's a general timeline:

• 1-3 days: Initial rest at home
• 1-2 weeks: Time off work (may be longer for physically demanding jobs)
• 2-4 weeks: Gradual return to light exercise
• 4-6 weeks: Return to more strenuous activities

Remember, this can vary based on the extent of your surgery and your individual recovery. Your consultant will provide personalised advice on when you can safely return to your normal daily activities.

What to expect after endometriosis laparoscopy?

After your laparoscopy, you can typically expect:

• Some abdominal pain and bloating for a few days
• Small scars at the incision sites
• Shoulder tip pain (due to residual gas used during the procedure)
• Mild vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Gradual improvement in endometriosis symptoms
• Follow-up appointment to discuss results and further management

Our team will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and support throughout your recovery. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns during your recovery period.

What not to do after endometriosis laparoscopy?

At Circle Health Group, we advise patients to avoid the following after laparoscopy:

• Driving for at least 24 hours post-surgery
• Heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks
• Sexual intercourse for 2-4 weeks (your consultant will advise specifically)
• Swimming or bathing (showers are fine) until incisions are fully healed
• Making important decisions within 24 hours of general anaesthesia

Your consultant will provide personalised advice based on your specific procedure and recovery. Always follow their guidance for the best chance of an optimal recovery outcome.

Does laparoscopy cure endometriosis?

We explain to our patients that while laparoscopy doesn't cure endometriosis, it can significantly manage symptoms:

• It can remove visible endometriosis lesions
• Many patients experience significant symptom relief
• It can improve fertility in some cases
• However, endometriosis can recur over time

Laparoscopy is often part of a broader management strategy that may include hormonal treatments and lifestyle changes. Your consultant will discuss the best long-term management plan for your individual case.

What happens if they find endometriosis during laparoscopy?

If endometriosis is found during your laparoscopy at Circle Health Group, our approach is as follows:

• The extent and location of endometriosis will be assessed
• Your surgeon will usually proceed with treatment (ablation or excision) as previously discussed with you
• Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy
• Photographs might be taken for your medical record
• Your consultant will discuss the findings and treatment performed in detail after your procedure

We ensure you're fully informed about what was found and what was done during your laparoscopy, as well as any implications for future management.

Can a laparoscopy make endometriosis worse?

We reassure our patients that a laparoscopy at Circle Health Group is performed by experienced surgeons should not make endometriosis worse. In fact:

• The goal of laparoscopy is to diagnose and treat endometriosis
• Most patients experience improvement in symptoms after the procedure
• In rare cases, adhesions (scar tissue) might form, which could potentially cause discomfort

However, it's important to note that laparoscopy doesn't prevent new endometriosis from developing. Our team will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you before the procedure.

Can endometriosis come back after laparoscopy?

We always provide honest information to our patients at Circle Health Group. Unfortunately, endometriosis can recur after laparoscopy:

• Recurrence rates vary, but studies suggest 20-40% of women may experience recurrence within 5 years
• The risk of recurrence depends on various factors, including the severity of the initial disease and the type of treatment performed
• Some women may not experience a recurrence for many years, if at all

We focus on providing comprehensive care, including post-surgical management strategies to minimise the risk of recurrence and manage symptoms effectively if they do return.

How fast does endometriosis grow back after laparoscopy?

The rate of endometriosis regrowth can vary significantly between individuals.

• Some women may not experience regrowth for many years
• Others might notice a return of symptoms within months to a few years
• The average time to recurrence is often cited as 2-5 years, but this can vary widely

Factors influencing regrowth can include the extent of the original disease, the completeness of excision, and individual hormonal factors. Regular follow-ups with your consultant can help monitor for any signs of recurrence and catch it early for the best chance of an optimal outcome.

Can I get pregnant after laparoscopy for endometriosis?

At Circle Health Group, we often see improved fertility outcomes after laparoscopy for endometriosis:

• Many women are able to conceive naturally after the procedure
• Laparoscopy can improve fertility by removing endometriosis lesions and adhesions
• The improvement in fertility can last for 12-18 months post-surgery
• If pregnancy doesn't occur within this time, your consultant may discuss other fertility treatments

Remember, every case is unique. Your consultant will discuss your individual fertility prospects based on the extent of your endometriosis and other factors.

Will I lose weight after laparoscopy for endometriosis?

Laparoscopy itself is not a weight loss procedure. However:

• Some patients may notice a small, temporary weight loss due to pre-surgery fasting and post-surgery dietary changes
• Removal of large endometriomas or extensive endometriosis could potentially result in a small weight change
• Long-term, many patients find symptom relief allows them to be more active, which could contribute to weight management

Our focus is on improving your endometriosis symptoms and overall health. If you have concerns about weight, we can provide guidance on healthy lifestyle choices as part of your overall care plan.

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:   

• Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine  
• The freedom to choose which hospital and Consultant suit your needs  
• Personalised, Consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs  
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams  
• Support by the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end  
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included  
• Flexible payment options to spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about this procedure, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0141 300 5009.

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3. Endometriosis Surgery, Cleveland Clinic
4. Your laparoscopy, Endometriosis UK
5. Why Can Endometriosis Return After Surgery?, Sekin MD
6. Endometriosis, fertility and pregnancy, Endometriosis UK
7. What to expect from a laparoscopy for endometriosis, Medical news today