What questions should I ask before endometriosis laparoscopy?

Before laparoscopy, the most important questions focus on whether your surgeon can fully treat what they find, not just “look around.” Ask what technique they use if endometriosis is suspected (excision vs burning/fulguration/ablation), whether tissue will be sent to pathology for confirmation, and how they decide the anticipated scope of surgery based on your symptoms, prior operative reports, and imaging—even when imaging looks normal.

Because endometriosis can involve ovaries, bladder/ureters, bowel, diaphragm, and nerves, ask how they plan for multi‑organ disease: if bowel or urinary tract involvement is suspected, will the appropriate specialists be involved, and what procedures are they prepared to perform in the same operation. You’ll also want clarity on what would change the plan mid‑surgery (for example, unexpected deep disease, endometriomas, or adhesions), and what their approach is if adenomyosis is part of the picture—especially if fertility is a goal.

Finally, ask practical recovery and planning questions: expected incisions/approach, pain control strategy, typical time back to daily activity, and how follow‑up is handled if symptoms persist. Our team is very deliberate about setting expectations upfront—what we think surgery can and cannot accomplish, what records we need to plan safely, and what a comprehensive excision strategy would look like for your specific pattern of symptoms—so you can move forward with clarity.