TL;DR: A laparoscopy is keyhole surgery used to diagnose and often treat endometriosis. Recovery is usually faster than open surgery, but it is real surgery, and people are often surprised by the trapped-gas shoulder pain, fatigue and soreness in the first days and weeks. Rest, gentle movement, warmth, loose clothing, staying ahead of pain relief as advised by your team, and accepting help all make recovery gentler. Always follow your own surgeon's specific instructions.
Whether you are facing a laparoscopy yourself or caring for someone who is (one of the kindest questions we see is partners asking how to help), here is an honest, gentle guide to recovery, based on NHS and ACOG guidance. It does not replace your surgical team's advice.
What to expect in the first few days
Most people go home the same day or after one night. Expect soreness around the small incisions, tiredness, and often a surprising pain in the shoulders and upper back. That shoulder pain is from the gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery, and it is normal and temporary. Gentle walking helps the gas disperse.
Rest, but move gently
Recovery is a balance. You need real rest, but gentle, short walks from early on help prevent complications and ease the trapped gas. Do not push into pain or lift anything heavy. Let your body set the pace, and increase activity slowly over the following weeks as your team advises.
Comfort that helps
A few simple things make a real difference. Loose, soft clothing avoids pressing on tender incisions and a bloated belly. Gentle warmth can soothe soreness, though check with your team about heat near incisions; once they say heat is fine, something like a heated massage pillow can take the edge off tension as you rest. Propping up with pillows, keeping water and snacks within reach, a coccyx comfort cushion to make sitting kinder while you are tender, and a soft comfort blanket for resting all help. A care package of soft comforts is a thoughtful thing to prepare beforehand or to give someone recovering.
Stay ahead of the pain
Take pain relief as your surgical team directs rather than waiting until pain is severe; staying ahead of it makes the early days easier. We do not recommend specific medications here, so follow the exact plan your surgeon gives you, and call them if anything worries you.
Watch for warning signs
Most recoveries are straightforward, but contact your team or seek urgent care if you have a high fever, heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pain, redness or discharge from incisions, or trouble breathing. When in doubt, ask. It is always better to check.
The emotional side
Recovery is not only physical. After surgery for endometriosis, feelings can be complicated, especially if results were not what you hoped, or if you are told the condition may return. Be gentle with yourself, and lean on people who understand.
If you are caring for someone
Quietly handling meals, chores and reminders, keeping comfort items within reach, and simply being present says more than advice. Ask what would help rather than guessing, and let them rest without guilt. On the recovery days, our comfort collection is here to make the landing softer. Comfort, never a cure.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to recover from a laparoscopy?
Many people feel much better within one to two weeks, though full recovery and energy can take several weeks. Follow your surgeon's specific guidance, as it varies by procedure.
Why do I have shoulder pain after a laparoscopy?
It is from the gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery, which irritates the diaphragm. It is normal, temporary, and gentle walking helps it pass.
What helps recovery after endometriosis surgery?
Rest balanced with gentle walking, loose soft clothing, staying ahead of pain relief as directed, hydration, and accepting help all make it gentler.
How can I help my partner after their laparoscopy?
Handle practical tasks, keep comfort items and water within reach, follow their pain-relief schedule with them, watch for warning signs, and let them rest without pressure.
When should I call the doctor after a laparoscopy?
Seek help for high fever, heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pain, signs of infection at incisions, or breathing difficulty.
This article is general information, not medical advice, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always follow your surgical team's specific instructions and contact them with concerns. Sources: NHS, ACOG, Endometriosis UK.
Written by the Soft Days team, a small brand built by a family that lives with chronic illness. Last updated June 2026.