Treatments

Medication

Medication is often the first step in the management of endometriosis. It may include:

• painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen;
• hormone treatments, such as the combined contraceptive pill or other medicines that affect hormone levels, to reduce pain.

Hormone treatments are not prescribed if you are planning to become pregnant.

Surgical treatment

When other options are ineffective or in cases of advanced disease, surgery may be considered. It may also be recommended if the condition is affecting fertility.

Surgery may involve:

• removing endometriosis lesions or fluid-filled cysts (ovarian cysts) associated with the condition;
• removing the uterus (hysterectomy) or the ovaries (oophorectomy);
• removing part of the bladder or bowel if these organs are affected.

In some cases, multiple procedures may be necessary, particularly if symptoms recur or if adhesions (scar tissue connecting organs together) develop after the operation.

Consulting a fertility specialist in the event of difficulties conceiving, as well as psychological support in the event of mood disorders or anxiety, may also be beneficial.

A multidisciplinary approach to pain management, incorporating physiotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can also help to reduce pain associated with endometriosis and improve everyday well-being.