Whether you should have surgery may depend on your age and your overall health. Talk with your doctor if:

• You have severe pelvic pain

• Medication doesn’t get your symptoms under control

• You have trouble getting pregnant

• A growth in your pelvic area needs to be removed

Your first appointment will likely be with either your primary care physician or a gynecologist. If you're seeking treatment for infertility, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in reproductive hormones and optimizing fertility (reproductive endocrinologist).

Treatment for endometriosis usually involves medication or surgery. The approach you and your doctor choose will depend on how severe your signs and symptoms are and whether you hope to become pregnant.

Doctors typically recommend trying conservative treatment approaches first, opting for surgery if initial treatment fails.

You might be tired for a few days after a laparoscopy. Your doctor may tell you not to drive for 2 weeks. They might also tell you not to have sex or do activities like swimming or bathing in a tub for about 2 weeks.

Recovery from a laparotomy is slower and can be more painful. It might take several weeks. During your recovery at home, you may not be able to do some everyday activities.

If your pain persists or if finding a treatment that works takes some time, you can try measures at home to relieve your discomfort.

• Warm baths and a heating pad can help relax pelvic muscles, reducing cramping and pain.

• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), can help ease painful menstrual cramps.