Surgery is the only definitive way (right now) to diagnose endometriosis.
One of the reasons it’s so very important to have a specialist, is they understand how to properly remove adhesions. The gold standard of endometriosis treatment surgery is Excision Surgery (Laparoscopic Deep-Excision Surgery). It is the most effective surgical treatment means of treating endometriosis offering the longest and most symptomatic relief.
What exactly is excision surgery?
Using sharp dissection and laparoscopy, the surgeon can thoroughly eradicate all forms of endometriosis (including deeply infiltrating) and adhesions. Often there are seemingly invisible “roots” - when a surgeon just removes the visible portions of the disease, these roots grow right on back. I’ve read countless stories of women who, a year later, were right back were they were before surgery because the endo grew back.
By using excision, the surgeons go deeper (safely), to prevent this rapid reoccurrence. Over 85% of women will feel massive improvement, with some never experiencing symptoms again. Additionally, fertility is restored, normal pelvic anatomy is reestablishment, and symptoms eradicated. (1)
Surgery is not a cure, but it can lead to profoundly positive change
Please read more about specialists and why they are a must for this type of surgery here.
hormonal therapy
Birth control is often one of the first things prescribed to women with endo. BC is great for some, and an awful experience for many more. I personally used the Mirena IUD for a couple years. It initially helped quite a bit, then the effects rapidly diminished and I was right where I started (which isn’t uncommon). I don’t advocate for this line of treatment. The number of negative stories I have read and heard prove to me this is simply a temporary band-aid solution. If you have found success with this route, then I am delighted to hear that! On this site, I’m more focused on the combination of therapies and lifestyle choices that lead to long term change in our bodies, hence why I don’t spend too long speaking to this topic.
Talk to your doctor to see if this is right for you.