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Anyone know how quick endo grows with no uterus?

A MyEndometriosisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hunlock Creek, PA

My surgeon doesnt seem to be concerned about my bowel endometriosis. He feels previous surgeon missed a lot of lesions and doesnt feel all my endo grew in only 3 years after my hysterectomy.

Super scared that I should be taking hormone blockers or have ovaries removed. I dont want the endo on the bowels to keep growing. Im 46 and at least 6 years from menopause.

April 9
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Answer Summary

Members responded to a concern about endometriosis growing after hysterectomy with no uterus, sharing personal experiences that ranged from... Read more

Members responded to a concern about endometriosis growing after hysterectomy with no uterus, sharing personal experiences that ranged from ongoing pain management to multiple surgeries for spreading lesions. Several members described trying the minipill or Orilissa to slow endo growth, with some finding relief and others reporting difficult side effects like daily migraines and significant hair loss. A recurring theme was the importance of seeking a second opinion, advocating for more aggressive treatment when needed, and leaning on community support while navigating fear, financial stress, and the possibility of ovary removal.

A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Sharing my experience because it is somewhat similar. I had an hysterectomy in 2022 and I'm the same age as you. I have one ovary left. After still experiencing monthly light bleeding from my remaining cervix, the gynaecologist advised me to take the minipill so remaining endometriosis does not grow inside, so that's what I take. Unfortunately, I still have belly pain, which I think is in my bowels. Gynaecological examinations show no visible growths, so I'll leave it at that. I try to eat generally healthy, but no special diet. I hardly use pain killers. It's just very uncomfortable sometimes, but I can live with it. Sometimes it feels strange that I don't know what's exactly goin on in my belly, but I'm not as worried as you are, it seems. Perhaps regular ultrasounds can give some reassurance (it helped for me), and you could consider the minipill. So, more or less what the Team says :)

April 13
MyEndometriosisTeam

How quickly does endometriosis grow after a hysterectomy when you still have your ovaries?

The growth rate of endometriosis varies from person to person - it can progress quickly in some cases or remain stable for years in others. Your surgeon may be right that some lesions were missed during your previous surgery rather Show Full Answer

How quickly does endometriosis grow after a hysterectomy when you still have your ovaries?

The growth rate of endometriosis varies from person to person - it can progress quickly in some cases or remain stable for years in others. Your surgeon may be right that some lesions were missed during your previous surgery rather than all being new growth.

Having a hysterectomy doesn't cure endometriosis, and keeping your ovaries means your body still produces estrogen, which can stimulate endometrial tissue growth. However, removing your ovaries at 46 would trigger early menopause, which comes with its own health risks including heart disease, osteoporosis, mood changes, and Parkinson's disease.

Studies show that about 21.6 percent of people experience severe endometriosis pain returning after hysterectomy. Interestingly, there wasn't a huge difference in pain recurrence between those who kept their ovaries (22.6 percent) versus those who had them removed (20 percent). Before making decisions about ovary removal or hormone blockers, consider:

- Regular monitoring with ultrasounds or MRIs can track progression without surgery
- Hormone therapy or supplementation may help slow tissue growth and manage pain
- Removing ovaries doesn't guarantee pain relief and carries significant health risks at your age
- You're still several years from natural menopause, which may help symptoms on its own

It's worth getting a second opinion if you're concerned about your bowel endometriosis. A MyEndometriosisTeam member shared they had excision surgery years after their hysterectomy and endometriosis was found in three areas, showing that ongoing monitoring and treatment may be needed.

Take time to carefully weigh all options with your healthcare provider before making any major decisions.

April 9
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

@A MyEndometriosisTeam Member when is your surgery date?

October 3
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Jess1986 what a wonderful, supportive reply! Do you take estrogen after your ovary removal. Im too scared it will cause endo to regrow.

October 3
A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Hi @A MyEndometriosisTeam Member ❤️ Facing another surgery and the possibility of losing your ovaries at only 41 is a lot to process. Your fear is completely understandable.

I’ve lived with severe endometriosis for 18 years and had six surgeries, including a total hysterectomy. A year after my hysterectomy, I needed emergency surgery to remove both ovaries. Because it happened so suddenly, I had very little time to understand surgical menopause or prepare for what came next.

The hardest part for me was feeling unprepared and not having the support I needed afterward. It took two years to see a hormone specialist, and that was a difficult time physically and emotionally. I’m sharing this because I wish someone had encouraged me to ask more questions and have a care plan in place before surgery.

My experience doesn’t mean yours will be the same. If you can, ask your surgical team about your options and how they would support you through menopause if your ovaries need to be removed—including hormone care that takes your endometriosis history into account. You deserve clear answers and ongoing support.

You don’t have to feel brave every moment, and you don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m here if you want to ask about my experience, talk through your worries, or simply have someone listen before or after surgery. Sending you so much love and support- we’re here for you 🎗️💕🌻

October 3

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