What Is a Laparoscopic Hysterectomy? 

What Is a Laparoscopic Hysterectomy? 

A minimally invasive procedure to remove a woman’s uterus. This surgery is performed through very small incisions using a thin, lighted tube with a camera called a laparoscope. 

The laparoscope is inserted through the belly button and a few other incisions in the lower abdomen to remove the uterus. 

Why Would a Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Be Performed?   

  • Uterine Fibroids 
  • Endometriosis 
  • Uterine Prolapse 
  • Chronic Pelvic Pain 
  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding 
  • Certain Types of Cancer 

This procedure is usually recommended when other treatments are not successful. 

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: How to Prepare? 

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of surgery 
  • Stop taking aspirin 7 to 10 days before the surgery 
  • Stop taking NSAIDs and certain herbal supplements 3 to 7 days before the surgery 
  • Shower the night before the surgery to avoid infection 
  • You may be given certain medications on the day of surgery 
  • An antibiotic will be given through an IV to help ward off any bacterial infection 

After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: What to Expect? 

  • Pain in your shoulders or ribs from the gas put into your abdomen 
  • A catheter for about 24 hours to help drain your bladder 
  • Pain medications to reduce pain and discomfort  
  • Walk as soon as possible after surgery to prevent blood clots in your legs 
  • Light vaginal bleeding for several days and can use sanitary pads during this period 
  • Refrain from intercourse for six weeks 

Post Operative Care for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy    

  • Rest for the first 24 hours following surgery and gradually increase activity over the next few days 
  • Avoid any strenuous activities for the first 2 weeks 
  • Take pain medications as directed 
  • Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids  
  • Maintain good hygiene practices, including daily showers and changing pads or other dressings  
  • Keep the incisions clean and dry 
  • Avoid Sexual Activity for at least 6 weeks  
  • Follow all instructions provided by your doctor to ensure a safe and successful recovery 
  • Report any concerning symptoms such as fever, chills, persistent pain, or bleeding 

Benefits of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy   

  • Less pain  
  • Shorter recovery time  
  • Less scarring  
  • Reduced risk of complications  
  • Lower risk of damage to other organs 

After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: When To Call Your Doctor?   

Call your doctor right away if you experience the following:  

  • Heavy bleeding   
  • Persistent fever or infections 
  • Severe abdominal pain  
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge  
  • Difficulty urinating  
  • Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the incision sites  
  • Nausea, vomiting, or other signs of dehydration  
  • Pain or discomfort that does not improve with  medications