Finding the Right Endometriosis Specialist

If you think you may have endometriosis, finding an endometriosis specialist is crucial to getting proper treatment for the disease. Finding the right doctor can be tricky but arming yourself with research and good information can help simplify the process. 

The proper specialist is one who has a thorough knowledge of endometriosis, including exceptional surgical skills and training, access to the most modern surgical equipment and techniques, current understanding of various treatments, and openness to complementary approaches. They should listen to you patiently and have compassion. 

The problem is that just because someone identifies him/herself as an endometriosis specialist doesn’t mean it’s true. Some people call themselves that when they have a “special interest” in endometriosis or just want to do more surgeries that involve this devastating disease. But many patients undergo surgery as their “single best shot” at treating it, especially if infertility is part of their endometriosis problem. Such a sensitivity—with all that’s at stake—requires not just someone who talks about expertise, but who practices it—a lot.   

When it comes to finding the best endometriosis specialist, here are a few things to keep in mind. 

Transparency 

A surgeon who is transparent about their approach to care and their skillset is crucial in treating endometriosis.  Ask your surgeon “why do you consider yourself the best surgeon for endometriosis?”.  Can your surgeon show you recent pathology reports that show extensive excision? – WE CAN! 

Volume 

How many endometriosis surgeries has your surgeon done? Your surgeon should be confident and knowledgeable about their history in treating endometriosis and should be able to give you an accurate answer. 

Technique 

What type of surgical approach does your surgeon use?  Is your surgeon skilled in utilizing the advanced robotic platform for excision of endometriosis or do they only use a laparoscopic approach? 

Attention to detail in an evolving subject matter 

Ask your surgeon “what recent news can you share about endometriosis?”.  Is your surgeon knowledgeable about the research advances for this disease and co-morbidities?  

Endometriosis patients are some of the most informed patients in healthcare. They do extensive research and ask all the right questions.  You deserve an EXPERT!