Recent discussions in the media about endometriosis and chronic pain care and treatment decisions may have left many people feeling unsettled, confused or unsure about the support available to them.
For those with endometriosis who may have undergone surgery that was unnecessary or not appropriate we recognise that this reporting may feel distressing, particularly for those who have already experienced one or more surgical procedures.
For many Australians living with endometriosis, the journey to diagnosis and treatment has been long and, at times, traumatic.
Endometriosis is a complex, chronic inflammatory condition. It presents differently in each person. Some experience mild or cyclical symptoms, while others live with severe pain, fatigue, fertility challenges and organ involvement. Treatment decisions are rarely simple and are made based on symptoms, imaging findings, response to previous treatments and a person’s individual priorities at that time.
Endometriosis and Surgery
Surgery is one recognised treatment option within endometriosis care. National clinical guidelines emphasise that it is not a first-line diagnostic step in most cases. Hormonal therapy and symptom management are typically trialled first. However, laparoscopy may be considered when symptoms persist, when imaging suggests more significant disease, when fertility is a priority, or when diagnosis remains uncertain.
Importantly, surgery is not a cure for endometriosis. For some, it can reduce pain or improve quality of life. For others, symptoms may persist or recur. This does not mean a decision was inherently wrong. It reflects the complexity of both endometriosis and persistent pain.
Chronic Pain Australia also recognises that persistent pelvic pain can exist alongside endometriosis or independently of visible disease. Modern pain science acknowledges that pain is influenced by biological, neurological and psychosocial factors. Effective care often requires an interdisciplinary approach that may include pelvic physiotherapy, psychological support, pain medicine and self-management strategies alongside gynaecological care.
If recent media reporting has left you questioning your past treatment or feeling distressed about your health journey, it is important to pause before drawing conclusions. Treatment decisions are made based on the information available at the time and through shared decision-making between patient and clinician. Reviewing your medical history with a trusted healthcare professional can help provide clarity and reassurance.
Public debate within medicine is part of ongoing improvement in healthcare. However, these conversations should never invalidate the lived experience of people in pain. As always, Chronic Pain Australia remains treatment agnosistic and supports treatments that are evidence-based, safe and tailored to the individual.
Support Is Available
Public conversations about pain and treatment can bring up strong emotions. If recent health coverage has left you feeling worried about your symptoms or past care decisions, consider discussing your concerns with a trusted clinician and accessing support services that validate your pain and help you move forward with confidence.
Our Painlink Helpline offers compassionate, non-judgmental support to anyone living with chronic pain across Australia. Through Painlink, you can speak with trained peer support staff who will listen, help you explore options and connect you with community resources and services suited to your needs.
📞 Painlink Helpline: 1800 07 2424
📧 Email: painlink@chronicpainaustralia.org.au
🌐 Visit: https://chronicpainaustralia.org.au/painlink/
Peer Support Services
Chronic Pain Australia facilitate peer support groups, both in community settings and online, where people living with pain can connect and share experiences. These groups are safe, lived-experience spaces where you can be heard and supported.
Find a group near you:
🌐 https://chronicpainaustralia.org.au/painsupportgroups/
For detailed, condition-specific information about endometriosis and surgical care, we encourage people to visit Endometriosis Australia:
https://endometriosisaustralia.org/surgery-and-endometriosis/
Chronic Pain Australia remains committed to ensuring that people living with chronic pain have access to evidence-informed information, compassionate peer support and care that is centred around them.