The general information about laparoscopic sterilization may help you answer some of your important questions
What is a laparoscopic clip sterilisation?A laparoscopic clip sterilisation is a minor surgical procedure which provides permanent contraception by blocking the fallopian tubes with metal clips. This prevents the eggs from the ovaries travelling to the uterus and also prevents the egg and sperm from meeting, so there can be neither fertilisation nor resulting pregnancy.
How is a laparoscopic clip sterilisation carried out?Laparoscopic clip sterilisation is a day case procedure carried out under a general anaesthetic. A laparoscope (a thin telescope) is inserted into the abdomen via a small cut under the belly button, carbon dioxide gas is pumped into the abdomen which separates the tissues allowing the pelvic organs to be seen clearly, and then metal clips are applied to both fallopian tubes via a small cut near the pubic hair line.
Why is a laparoscopic clip sterilisation necessary?Laparoscopic clip sterilisation is a decision made by the individual patient who can find no other suitable form of contraception, having considered all other available options. She should have completed her family and / or require permanent infertility.
What are the possible complications associated with laparoscopic clip sterilisation?Following the operation there is a failure rate of 1:500 with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. The operation should be considered to be irreversible.
If the surgeon encounters difficulties due to previous pelvic surgery or an overweight patient a slightly larger cut will be made, which will require a longer stay in hospital.
As with any kind of surgery there is a slight risk from general anaesthetic but the specific risks of a laparoscopic clip sterilisation may include perforation of any of the organs of the pelvis, mainly the uterus, bowel or bladder.
Dr. Manisha Rajpal Singh
Dr. Manisha Singh is an eminent Gynaecologist and a sub-specialist in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery with over 32 years of extensive surgical experience. She is also an acknowledged expert in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery services by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), London, UK. Dr. Manisha Singh has an experience of over 32 years in Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Infertility & Assisted Conception treatments.
How can I prepare myself for the operation?
Ensure your decision to have the operation has not been taken during a time of emotional stress, e.g. recent childbirth, martial stress, etc. Be absolutely sure that there could be no circumstances, for example, divorce, remarriage, death of a child where you would desire further pregnancies.
On a practical level, organise your home circumstances prior to admission, e.g. housework, shopping, childcare.
Ensure someone is available to pick you up from hospital and stay with you on the night after the operation.
What will having a laparoscopic clip sterilisation involve?
Before the operation:
You will need to be prepared for a general anaesthetic.
Therefore, please do not eat or drink from 12 midnight on the day of your operation. Remove all jewellery (except wedding rings or items too difficult to remove).
Remove all nail varnish from finger and toe nails. Please shower or bath the night or morning before the
Day of admission to hospital:
If you feel very nervous and would like tablets to help you relax, please inform your nurse who will inform your doctor /anaesthetist. Again, if you have had a recent cold, please let your nurse know. Please ask any questions you may have. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove all underwear. You may walk or be taken by trolley to theatre, accompanied by a
After the operation:
You may experience some period type cramps and bloating. You may also have some shoulder tip pain due to wind. You will be given painkillers to ease this. If you feel nauseous after the operation anti – sickness injections or tablets can be given. You may go home if you are able to eat and drink and have passed urine.
Someone should be available to escort you home and stay with you overnight.
What happens when I go home?
You should rest as soon as you get home. You may experience some pain – paracetamol tablets (500mg each) should be strong enough, but do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours. The pain should become easier within 48 hours but if it is not easing, you should contact your doctor for further advice. You should not have a temperature after the operation, if you do, please contact your doctor to arrange readmittance. A little blood may ooze from the wounds for up to 24 hours. A dry dressing or plaster can be applied if necessary. You may bath or shower as soon as you feel able – do not put soap or powder on the wounds and try to leave uncovered after 24 hours. If there are stitches, these will dissolve within two weeks. If the stitches do not dissolve or the area becomes reddened and / or tender, please see your doctor.
Do not attempt to do anything which requires skill or judgment for 24 hours following an anaesthetic. Do not drive for at least 24 hours and then only drive when you feel comfortable wearing a seat belt and can put your foot hard on the brakes without causing abdominal discomfort.
FAQ’s
Normal activities can be resumed as soon as you feel able- usually within 72 hours. However, avoid heavy lifting / strenuous exercises until you feel comfortable doing so.
You can expect to feel tired for up to a week following your surgery. You may need to take a week off work to rest, although you may feel you can return earlier, depending on your job. A sick note can be given for one week, if requested. Any further sick notes can be obtained from your doctor.
You may experience some light vaginal bleeding for up to a week, once this has settled and you feel comfortable, sexual relations may be resumed.
If you have a late period, obtain a pregnancy test. There is a failure rate of 1:500 and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.
There should be no change in your sexuality; indeed, reduced anxiety may increase interest. Rarely women may feel a sense of regret for lost fertility, thereby reducing libido.
This is unlikely, although decreased fluids and diet can cause slight constipation. It is advisable to eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink lots of fluids.
You should be able to start exercising after a week, however, ease yourself gently into exercise programme and not too much at once.
The incisions made are very small and the scars will be barely visible after a few months.
Yes, this operation will not affect your need for regular cervical smears.
Yes, this operation will not affect your need for regular cervical smears.
Not at present. When you approach the menopause, this will be a decision to be made in conjunction with your doctor.
This should not occur, although initial discomfort and restriction of usual activities may be bothersome, this should soon resolve.
Yes, your ovaries will continue to produce eggs that will be reabsorbed by the body. You will also continue your menstrual cycle; however, if you were previously taking the Pill you may find your periods are heavier.
You will need to see the doctor after one week of surgery following which no further appointments may be necessary.
If you Have Any Questions Schedule an Appointment OR Call Us On 080 - 66214281