How often do I need follow-up imaging for endometriosis?

Follow-up imaging doesn’t follow a single fixed schedule. It’s individualized based on what we’re monitoring. We use ultrasound and/or MRI most often when it will change decisions, such as tracking ovarian endometriomas, mapping suspected deep disease (bowel, bladder, or uterosacral involvement), or evaluating adenomyosis or a new pelvic mass. Symptoms and imaging don’t always match, so the goal is to get the right test at the right moment rather than scan on a timer.

In many cases, a practical framework is a baseline post-op check once initial healing is complete (often around 6–12 weeks), a planned reassessment around 6–12 months, and then annual follow-ups, especially if you had endometriomas, deep infiltrating disease, or persistent symptoms. Imaging may not be needed at every visit, but we’re more likely to recommend it when symptoms change, when prior imaging was incomplete, or when we need a clearer multi-compartment map to guide next steps. If you share your prior imaging reports, along with images if available, our team can tell you what’s worth repeating, what’s not, and how often surveillance makes sense for your specific pattern and goals.