Pelvic Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a type of surgery done using very small incisions. This type of surgery is possible because of the laparoscope (a long, slender tool with a camera and light). It lets your surgeon see inside the stomach. To perform the surgery, special instruments are inserted into the stomach through small incisions. Pelvic laparoscopy is often used to diagnose and treat the causes of pelvic problems, such as pain and infertility. Laparoscopy often involves:

• A short hospital stay. (You can most likely go home the same day.)

• A quick recovery

• Minimal anesthesia

• Small external scars

• Mild to moderate postoperative pain

Getting ready

To prepare for surgery:

• Tell your surgeon about any medicines you take. Include herbs, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines. You may need to stop taking certain medicines, such as aspirin, for 7 to 10 days before surgery.

• Do not eat or drink anything after the midnight before surgery.

• Arrange for a ride home after surgery.

Before the procedure

You will most likely be given general anesthesia to make you sleep during the procedure. A catheter may be inserted to drain urine from the bladder. 

How pelvic laparoscopy is done

One or more small (quarter- or half-inch) incisions are made near the navel or the pubic hairline, or on either side of the lower belly. The laparoscope is inserted through an incision. It sends images to a video screen, allowing the surgeon a close-up view of the organs. Gas is used to inflate the belly, allowing the surgeon room to see and work. Depending on what is found, surgery to treat the problem may be done at this time.

After the procedure

• You’ll be taken to a post-op area to wake up and recover from anesthesia.

• You may feel some shoulder pain. This is due to irritation from the gas used to inflate the belly.

• You may have some discharge from the vagina. If so, ask the nurse for a pad.

• You will be asked to walk around to improve breathing and blood flow.

• If you had a catheter, it will most likely be removed before you go home.

• You can go home as soon as you recover from anesthesia and your condition is stable.

Your recovery

Recovery time depends on which procedure was done through the laparoscope. Your recovery from pelvic laparoscopy may take up to 6 weeks. If it was a simple procedure, like tubal ligation, then 2 weeks is reasonable. For laparoscopic hysterectomies, the recovery may be closer to 6 weeks. While you recover, be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. During this time:

• Take pain medicine as prescribed.

• Start eating solid food when you feel ready. To avoid constipation, eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of fluids.

• Don’t lift anything heavy until your healthcare provider says it’s safe.

• Take it easy for a few days. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to work, exercise, and sex.

• Arrange for a follow-up visit with your healthcare provider to discuss the results of the procedure.