“Just have a hysterectomy.” It’s a sentence far too many Endometriosis Warriors have heard.

But there is one incredibly important fact we need to keep talking about:

A hysterectomy is not a cure for Endometriosis.

Why?

A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus. Depending on the type of surgery, the cervix may also be removed, while removal of the ovaries is a separate procedure.

Endometriosis, however, is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus and beyond.

Endometriosis lesions can be found in areas such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, bowel and bladder, and in less common cases beyond the pelvis.

So removing the uterus does not automatically remove Endometriosis elsewhere in the body.

You can have no uterus and still have Endometriosis.

What about removing the ovaries?

This is another important misconception.

Removing both ovaries can significantly change the body's hormone environment and may improve symptoms for some people, but it still isn't considered a guaranteed cure for Endometriosis.

Removing the ovaries also causes surgical menopause in people who have not already reached menopause, so it is a significant decision with its own short- and long-term health considerations that need to be discussed individually with an appropriately qualified specialist.

Then why do some Endometriosis Warriors have a hysterectomy?

Because a hysterectomy can still be the right treatment for some individuals just not because it universally cures Endometriosis.

There may be other reasons a hysterectomy is recommended, including severe uterine symptoms or another condition occurring alongside Endometriosis.

One particularly important example is Adenomyosis.

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining is found within the muscular wall of the uterus. Because Adenomyosis is located within the uterus, hysterectomy is currently considered the definitive treatment for Adenomyosis for people who do not wish to preserve their uterus or fertility.

Endometriosis and Adenomyosis are different conditions.

Someone can also have both at the same time.

This is one reason you may hear someone say their hysterectomy dramatically improved their pain while another Warrior continues experiencing significant symptoms afterwards.

Their individual diseases, symptoms and circumstances may be completely different.

Can Endometriosis symptoms continue after a hysterectomy? Yes.

Endometriosis lesions that remain outside the uterus can continue to cause symptoms. Persistent or recurrent pain after surgery can also be complex and may have more than one contributing factor.

That's why treatment needs to look at the individual Warrior, rather than assuming removing one organ will solve every source of pelvic pain.

The message we need more people to understand

A hysterectomy can be life changing and medically appropriate for some people.

It can also be an incredibly significant physical and emotional decision.

But we need to stop presenting it to Endometriosis Warriors as a simple universal solution.

Endometriosis exists outside the uterus.

Removing the uterus does not automatically remove Endometriosis.

And most importantly: A Warrior deserves accurate information about their options before making a permanent decision about their body.

A Note From The Endo Essentials:

The Endo Essentials is a lived experience community and awareness platform. We are not doctors, and the information provided here is for general education and awareness only.

Treatment for Endometriosis should always be individualised. If you're considering a hysterectomy or experiencing ongoing symptoms following one, please speak with your GP, gynaecologist or an appropriately qualified Endometriosis specialist about your individual circumstances.

For serious or urgent medical concerns, please seek urgent medical attention or attend your nearest emergency department.