Laparoscopies are performed for investigative and diagnostic & therapeutic purposes. Problems such as pelvic pain and infertility can be investigated using this procedure and it is also useful in diagnosing ectopic pregnancies.
What are the possible complications associated with laparoscopy?As with any kind of surgery there is a slight risk from the general anaesthetic but the specific risks of a laparoscopy may include perforation of any of the organs of the pelvis, mainly the uterus, bowel, bladder or blood vessels. Your doctor will explain these risks.
How can I prepare myself for the operation?In preparation for your operation ensure that you fully understand the procedure by highlighting any questions or worries. It is advisable that you arrange for help at home with daily chores, childcare arrangements if necessary and it is important to organise transport home. We advise you to bring in an overnight bag in case you need to stay in hospital. Prior to coming into hospital, you should have a bath or shower and please ensure that nail varnish is removed from fingernails and toes. You should leave all valuables and jewellery at home.
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.
What will having a laparoscopy involve?
Before your operation you will be asked to attend a preoperative clinic to ensure you are properly prepared for your surgery.
Before the operation:
The doctor will assess your general health and any observations, investigations, e.g. blood tests and heart tests will be performed. Your operation will be explained and it is an ideal opportunity to ask any questions. It is very important that the night before you should not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours prior to coming to
Day of admission to hospital:
On the day of admission, you will be welcomed by one of the nursing staff and introduced to your named nurse. She will ask you a few brief questions and take measurements of your blood pressure, temperature, pulse and weight. She will also ask you for a urine sample if not already provided. Prior to your operation you will be seen by a doctor and anaesthetist. When it is time for your surgery the nurse will ask you to wear a gown and will either walk you to theatre or escort you
After the operation:
After your operation the nurse will escort you back to the ward. On return your blood pressure and pulse will be monitored and your sanitary and laparoscopic sites inspected for blood loss. If you have no sickness, you will be allowed to drink then shortly after you will be allowed to have something to eat. If you do have sickness or are experiencing pain the nurse will administer medication to relieve your symptoms. You need to have passed urine and have been seen by your doctor who will explain the findings of your operation before you go home.
How soon should I return to my normal activities?
Do not drive yourself for at least 24 hours. It is important to rest for the first few days following your operation.
You should not perform any heavy lifting or housework and we advise that you refrain from driving until you can comfortably do so without causing any discomfort. It is advised that you take up to a week off work; a sick note can be obtained prior to discharge if required.
FAQ’s
You can expect to feel tired for up to a week following your surgery so it is important to get plenty of rest. Get help at home if necessary.
You should refrain from sexual intercourse until your bleeding has stopped and when you feel ready.
You should be able to start exercising after a week, however ease yourself gently into your exercise programme and do not do too much at once.
Depending on the findings of the laparoscopy, you may need to attend the hospital at a later date. This will be discussed with you and the doctor prior to discharge and any necessary arrangements will be made.
When you go home you may experience some period like pain. You should not experience severe pain or have a temperature. It is not uncommon to experience pain in the legs and shoulders. This is nothing to worry about and is caused by any air left in your abdomen dispersing.
The discomfort should get easier after 48 hours, in the meantime we advise regular painkillers like paracetamol (500 mg) twice or thrice in a day.
You may also experience light vaginal bleeding for up to a week. You should use sanitary towels and not tampons during this time. This bleeding does not affect your period and it should arrive at its normal time.
You will notice small sutures in your abdomen. These are usually dissolvable and can take up to two weeks to dissolve. If they become irritable then you need to visit the hospital. You should seek the doctor’s advice if they become tender and red. These sutures should be left exposed after 24hours and it is right to bath or shower with them in.
You should refrain from sexual intercourse until your bleeding has stopped and when you feel ready.
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