Endometriosis

One in ten women is affected by endometriosis – and yet it often takes years to receive a diagnosis. At our specialist endometriosis clinic at Zuger Kantonsspital, we take your symptoms seriously, carry out a thorough assessment and support you with professional expertise and empathy.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterine cavity. This tissue can cause inflammation, adhesions and severe lower abdominal pain, and can significantly impair quality of life. Because the symptoms can vary greatly, endometriosis often goes undiagnosed for a long time.

Our specialist endometriosis clinic

At our endometriosis clinic, we take the time to listen to you. We advise, diagnose and treat you in close collaboration with other specialist departments within our hospital. Our specialist doctors support you from the initial assessment right through to complex surgical procedures – tailored to your individual situation.

Treatment – conservative and surgical

Not every case of endometriosis requires surgery. In many cases, symptoms can be alleviated using conservative methods. These include medication or hormonal therapies, targeted pain management, physiotherapy or nutritional advice.

Within Zuger Kantonsspital, we work closely with the physiotherapy department, the nutritional advice service, the endocrinology department and the pain clinic within our anaesthesia department. This enables us to offer the full range of treatments under one roof. We will decide together with you which approach is right for you.

Gentle treatment using minimally invasive techniques

If surgery is necessary, we perform many operations using minimally invasive techniques – known as keyhole surgery (laparoscopy). This avoids the need for a large abdominal incision, making the procedure particularly gentle on the tissues. Many patients recover more quickly after a minimally invasive procedure, experience less pain and have a shorter hospital stay. In our fully digital 3D operating theatre, even complex operations can be carried out with a high degree of precision.

The aim of the treatment is to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you are hoping to conceive, your chances of becoming pregnant may improve significantly following the procedure.

On the path to becoming a certified endometriosis centre

We are currently in the process of being certified as an endometriosis centre in accordance with the criteria of the Endometriosis Research Foundation/EuroEndoCert. This certification stands for structured, high-quality care based on the latest scientific findings.

Services

  • Endometriosis clinic: comprehensive diagnostic assessment, including imaging
  • conservative treatments
  • Symptomatic treatment with medication
  • Hormone-specific treatment
  • Physiotherapy
  • Endometriosis surgery, minimally invasive, and interdisciplinary where necessary

Further Information

Surgical Gynaecology
Women's Health Clinic

Endometriosis and the desire to have children

We are here to support you with expert advice and personalised guidance on all matters relating to trying for a baby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the typical symptoms of endometriosis?

Common symptoms include severe period pain, chronic lower abdominal pain, pain during sexual intercourse, and discomfort when passing urine or stools. Difficulty conceiving may also be a sign. If symptoms persist, it is worth seeking a specialist assessment.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

The process begins with a detailed consultation and a gynaecological examination, usually supplemented by an ultrasound scan. In some cases, a laparoscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis, as this allows the tissue to be assessed directly.

Is surgery always necessary for endometriosis?

No. Treatment depends on your symptoms and your personal circumstances, and may involve medication, surgery or a combination of both. The aim is always to relieve your symptoms. We will discuss the most suitable course of action with you.

Can I get pregnant if I have endometriosis?

Many women with endometriosis can become pregnant. Depending on the severity of the condition, it may make it more difficult to conceive. During your consultation, we will provide you with personalised advice and, if you are trying to conceive, we will involve other specialist departments.