Post Endometriosis excision surgery tips

Despite numerous information online, Endometriosis excision surgery is still a major surgery (despite having minor scars). Our most important tip is to not underestimate the fatigue, shoulder gas pain and overall body pain you may experience during the. recovery.

After personally experiencing 7 excision surgeries myself I have found that I truly don't feel like my normal self until that 4 month mark but by 6-12 weeks I am starting to get my strength, pain and fatigue under control. Just remember to LISTEN to your body and do what is best for you as everyone's recover is different.

Post Endometriosis excision surgery, it's important to know what to expect for a smooth recovery and effective symptom management. Here’s a detailed guide:

 Immediate post-surgery

 1. Recovery room:

   - Observation: You’ll be closely monitored as you wake up from Anesthesia. Vital signs, pain levels, and overall condition will be checked.

   - Pain management: Expect some pain and discomfort. Pain relief medications will be administered as needed. 

  1. Hospital stay:

   - Duration: Depending on the extent of the surgery and individual response, you might stay in the hospital for a few hours to a couple of days.

   - Mobility: You’ll be encouraged to start moving around as soon as possible to prevent complications like blood clots.

First few days 

  1. Pain and discomfort:

   - Incision pain: There will be soreness around the incision sites. Pain can usually be managed with prescribed painkillers.

   - Gas pain: Laparoscopic surgery often involves inflating the abdomen with gas, which can cause discomfort as it dissipates.

  1. Diet and hydration:

   - Gradual diet: You might start with clear liquids and gradually move to solid foods as tolerated.

   - Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to stay hydrated and aid in recovery.

  1. Rest and activity:

   - Rest: Plenty of rest is necessary, but light activity, such as short walks, can help with recovery.

   - Avoid strain: Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and any activity that strains the abdominal area.

 First few weeks

  1. Follow-up appointment:

   - Doctor visit: You’ll have a follow-up appointment to check your healing progress and address any concerns. 

  1. Wound care:

   - Incision care: Keep incisions clean and dry. Follow specific instructions given by your surgeon regarding bathing and dressing changes.

   - Watch for signs of infection: Redness, swelling, discharge, or increased pain around the incision sites should be reported to your doctor.

  1. Activity level:

   - Gradual increase: Gradually increase your activity level as you feel comfortable, but avoid vigorous activities until your doctor clears you.

  1. Pain management:

   - Medication: Continue taking prescribed pain medications as needed.

   - Alternative methods: Consider using heating pads, gentle stretching and relaxation techniques to manage discomfort.

Long-term recovery

  1. Symptom monitoring:

   - Pain relief: Many patients experience significant relief from Endometriosis-related pain, but some may have residual symptoms.

   - Symptom recurrence: Be aware of the potential for symptom recurrence and report any returning symptoms to your doctor.

  1. Hormonal therapy:

   - Post-surgery treatment: Depending on your condition, your doctor might recommend hormonal treatments to prevent recurrence of Endometriosis.

  1. Fertility:

   - Pregnancy plans: Discuss any plans for pregnancy with your doctor. Surgery can improve fertility for some women with Endometriosis.

   - Fertility monitoring: If fertility issues persist, further evaluation and treatment options may be necessary.

  1. Lifestyle adjustments:

   - Diet and exercise: Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine to support overall health and recovery.

   - Stress management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and counselling can help manage stress, which can impact Endometriosis symptoms.

  1. Support:

   - Support groups: Consider joining support groups for individuals with Endometriosis to share experiences and coping strategies.

   - Counselling: Professional counselling can help manage the emotional impact of chronic pain and Endometriosis.

Possible complications 

- Infections: Watch for signs of infection, such as fever, severe pain, or unusual discharge.

- Adhesions: Scar tissue can form after surgery, potentially causing pain or other issues.

- Bowel or bladder issues: If the surgery involved areas close to these organs, there might be temporary changes in function.

When to seek medical attention 

- Severe pain: Unmanageable pain despite medication.

- Fever: High fever or signs of infection.

- Heavy bleeding: Unusual or heavy vaginal bleeding.

- Nausea/vomiting: Persistent nausea or vomiting.

- Urination/bowel issues: Difficulty with urination or bowel movements.

By understanding what to expect post-surgery and following your doctor's advice, you can optimise your recovery and manage your Endometriosis effectively.

PLEASE NOTE: The Endo Essentials company takes no responsibility for your diagnosis, tailoring your treatment/plan, we do not claim to be doctors and strongly recommend seeking medical advice from a Health Physician to treat your symptoms. We write these blogs purely based on the evidence provided at the current time and try our best to keep these blogs as up to date as possible. 

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