Postoperative Recovery

Soreness at the incisions, cramping, bloating, and shoulder‑tip gas pain are common in the first few days and should steadily improve. Concerning signs include fever, worsening rather than improving pain after day 3–4, foul drainage, calf swelling, shortness of breath, or heavy vaginal bleeding—contact your team urgently if these occur.

Light walking is encouraged within 24 hours, with desk work often possible in 1–2 weeks after uncomplicated laparoscopy; complex bowel or bladder repairs may require 3–6 weeks or more. Avoid heavy lifting and high‑impact core work until cleared, typically 4–6 weeks, and resume penetrative sex when comfortable and cleared by your surgeon; vaginal repairs usually require a longer interval.

If pregnancy is not the goal, postoperative hormonal suppression (e.g., continuous progestin or combined options) can lower recurrence risk; discuss choices under Medical Management. Pelvic floor rehabilitation, gradual conditioning, stress and sleep care, and anti‑inflammatory nutrition support healing and may reduce flares; see Pelvic Floor PT and Anti-Inflammatory Diet.

After bilateral oophorectomy, most benefit from menopausal hormone therapy to protect bones, brain, and heart; in endometriosis, a regimen that includes progestin is often preferred to reduce stimulation of any residual disease. Decisions are individualized based on age, symptoms, and surgical findings; learn more in Menopause & Hormonal Transitions.

Timing depends on the procedures performed and your specific fertility plan. Many can begin trying after 1–3 cycles following uncomplicated excision, while bowel or bladder repairs may warrant 3–6 months of healing; coordinate with your surgeon and fertility specialist and see Fertility & Reproductive Health and IVF & ART for planning.