Treatment

Excision is only the first step, and resolving pain often requires more than one approach.

A tailored approach is essential: excision surgery is critical for addressing endometriosis, but only if performed by a surgeon highly skilled in recognizing, mapping, and thoroughly removing the disease. Unfortunately, many gynecologists lack the specialized training needed for this level of surgery. Expert excision is necessary to eliminate endometriosis as a source of pelvic pain, but it addresses just one aspect. If pain persists after skilled excision, other sources of pelvic pain must be investigated and treated.

It’s common for general gynecologists to overlook or inadequately treat endometriosis during surgery. Some may leave disease behind due to insufficient training or a misguided reliance on medication to “manage” the condition. While medications or hormonal treatments may help alleviate symptoms temporarily, they do not halt the progression of endometriosis.

Persistent pain often involves multiple contributing factors. For example, removing endometriosis alone will not resolve pelvic floor dysfunction, a painful uterus caused by adenomyosis, or recurring ovarian cysts, which can develop again during cycles. Similarly, bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis require separate, specific treatment. Achieving wellness is a journey: while some may feel fully better after excision, others will need to address additional issues to experience lasting relief.

Moreover, chronic pain leaves emotional scars that may require attention. Living with persistent pain for years can lead to frustration, anger, and feelings of victimization—especially after experiencing treatment failures or systemic shortcomings. It’s important to recognize that the medical system often acts out of limited knowledge rather than malice. Seeking emotional support or counseling can help you move beyond these feelings and heal from the mental toll of chronic illness.

As your health improves, your relationships may shift. Family roles and dynamics might evolve, which can lead to new challenges. Counseling can be valuable for navigating these changes and fostering healthy adjustments. While the sense of victimization from being chronically ill is valid, it is possible to move past it. Choosing to focus on healing and growth, rather than remaining in that mindset, can help you regain control of your life and embrace a brighter future.