With expert input from Denise Urtarte, Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Specialist at PRM in Los Angeles
Endometriosis is often misunderstood as a disease of the reproductive system, leading many to believe that removing the uterus through a hysterectomy will cure the condition. However, this is a misconception. Endometriosis is a whole-body disease, and its lesions have been found outside of the reproductive organs, affecting multiple areas of the body. Simply removing the uterus does not eliminate endometriosis, nor does it address the chronic inflammation and systemic effects it causes.
Endometriosis Extends Beyond the Uterus
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. While it is commonly found on the fallopian tubes and ovaries, it can also grow on other pelvic structures such as the bladder, bowels, and even in distant areas like the diaphragm, lungs, and, in rare cases, the brain. Because these lesions exist outside of the uterus, removing the uterus does not remove the disease.
Why Hysterectomy Is Not a Cure
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus, sometimes including the fallopian tubes and, in certain cases, the ovaries. However, many hysterectomies leave the ovaries intact, which continue to produce hormones that can fuel endometriosis lesions. Even if the ovaries are removed, endometriosis can still persist because estrogen is not the only factor contributing to the disease. The lesions themselves can produce their own estrogen, perpetuating inflammation and pain.
Additionally, if endometriosis is left behind after a hysterectomy, symptoms may continue or even worsen. This is why many patients find that their pain and other symptoms persist despite undergoing a hysterectomy. The only way to fully address endometriosis is through proper excision surgery performed by a skilled specialist who can remove all endometriotic lesions from the body.
The Role of Excision Surgery
Excision surgery is the gold standard for treating endometriosis because it involves carefully cutting out all endometriosis lesions from the affected areas, rather than just burning or superficially removing them. This type of surgery requires a surgeon with specialized training to identify and excise endometriosis wherever it is found, which can provide long-term relief from symptoms.
A More Comprehensive Approach to Endometriosis Treatment
Instead of focusing solely on hysterectomy, a comprehensive approach to endometriosis treatment should include:
Pre and post-operative care: Through the PRM Protocol™, PRM addresses inflammation in the pelvic floor caused by endometriosis to optimize surgical outcomes and promote ongoing healing.
Excision Surgery: To fully remove endometriosis lesions from the body.
Pelvic Floor Therapy: To address muscle dysfunction caused by chronic inflammation and pain.
Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Treatments: To help manage inflammation and symptoms.
Lifestyle Modifications: Including anti-inflammatory diets, stress management, and movement therapies to support overall health.
Conclusion
While a hysterectomy may be necessary for other conditions, it is not a cure for endometriosis. Because endometriosis is a disease that extends beyond the uterus, a hysterectomy alone will not remove all the lesions or resolve symptoms. The best approach for treating endometriosis is excision surgery, performed by a specialist who understands the complexities of the disease. Patients deserve accurate information and access to the right treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their health.
