Gynaecology Surgery in Ireland
Gynaecology surgery treats conditions of the womb, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and pelvic floor, including hysterectomy, laparoscopy for endometriosis, ovarian cyst removal, prolapse repair and hysteroscopy. Many procedures are now done by keyhole or through the vagina, with shorter recovery times.
Gynaecology Surgery procedures we cover
Every guide includes public waiting times, private costs in Ireland, and the EU Cross-Border option reimbursed by the HSE.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy removes the womb (uterus), and sometimes the cervix, fallopian tubes or ovaries. It's used for heavy periods, fibroids, prolapse, endometriosis…
Hysteroscopy & D&C
Hysteroscopy uses a thin camera passed through the vagina and cervix to look inside the womb. It's used to investigate abnormal bleeding…
Laparoscopy & Endometriosis Surgery
A laparoscopy is keyhole surgery to look inside the pelvis. It's used to diagnose and treat endometriosis, pelvic pain, cysts and some…
Ovarian & Fallopian Tube Surgery
Ovarian and fallopian tube surgery removes ovarian cysts, one or both ovaries, or the fallopian tubes. It's usually done by keyhole surgery…
Prolapse Surgery
Prolapse surgery repairs and supports the pelvic organs when the womb, bladder or bowel bulge into the vagina. It's usually done through…
Have your surgery in weeks, not years
Under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, you can be treated in an accredited EU/EEA hospital and claim the cost back from the HSE — with a GP or consultant referral.
Check whether you qualify and what you'd get back.
*Reimbursement is capped at the cost of the same treatment in the Irish public health system. Travel, accommodation and any balance above the HSE rate are not covered. Pre-authorisation applies to treatment involving an overnight hospital stay.
Why gynaecology waits matter
Gynaecology has long outpatient and surgical waiting lists in parts of the Irish public system. Conditions such as heavy periods, fibroids, endometriosis and prolapse are rarely dangerous, but they can cause pain, anaemia, fertility problems and a major impact on work, relationships and quality of life during a long wait.
Some symptoms need prompt assessment, including bleeding after the menopause, bleeding between periods or after sex, and a pelvic mass. These are prioritised through rapid-access gynaecology clinics.
Your options
You can be treated publicly with a GP referral, privately in Ireland, or in another EU country under the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, claiming back up to the Irish public cost. Day case procedures such as hysteroscopy and many laparoscopies usually don’t need prior authorisation, while hysterectomy and prolapse surgery, which involve an overnight stay, do.
Endometriosis care is increasingly delivered through specialist centres, and complex endometriosis surgery is best done by a surgeon with specific expertise.
Questions about gynaecology surgery
Do I need a referral for gynaecology surgery?
Yes. You need a GP referral for a public gynaecologist, and a referral is required for cross-border reimbursement.
Is keyhole surgery available for gynaecology operations?
Yes. Many hysterectomies, endometriosis operations and ovarian cyst removals are done laparoscopically, which usually means less pain and a quicker recovery.
Can I have gynaecology surgery abroad?
Yes, provided it is a treatment the HSE would provide in Ireland, you have a referral, and it is carried out in a public or private healthcare provider in another EU/EEA country. You pay upfront and claim back up to the Irish public cost. Travel and accommodation are not covered.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Bleeding after the menopause, very heavy bleeding with dizziness, severe sudden pelvic pain or pain in early pregnancy all need prompt medical attention.
Are there non-surgical options for heavy periods or fibroids?
Often yes, including medication, a hormonal coil (IUS), endometrial ablation or uterine artery embolisation. Your gynaecologist will discuss what suits you.