Laparoscopy
A laparoscopy is a keyhole surgery, and may be recommended to check your tubes are open (tubal patency) and the condition of your uterus and ovaries. It can also treat conditions such as
- endometriosis
- tubal microsurgery
- removal of fibroids
- correction of uterine abnormalities.
A laparoscope is introduced through a small incision in the abdomen. A video camera is fitted to an endoscope (a thin telescopic instrument) so the specialist can view the images on a video monitor.
If any surgical treatment is needed, special instruments are inserted through four other small incisions, usually hidden in the pubic hair. When the surgery is complete, the instruments are removed and the carbon dioxide gas is released from the abdominal cavity. A stitch closes each of the small incisions.
Laparoscopy is performed under general anaesthetic and takes about one to two hours. Your recovery will depend on the amount of surgery you need, but we recommend you take one or two days off work following the procedure.
After your operation, you may experience some symptoms that may last for several days, including tiredness, muscle pain, mild nausea, pain or discomfort at the site of the incisions, cramps, a small amount of vaginal discharge or bleeding or a sensation of swelling in the abdomen.