Post-Surgery Expectations

• In most cases, you will be discharged within 24 hours of your surgery.
• During the first 24 hours, you may experience shoulder pain, nausea, abdominal discomfort and tiredness.
• You will be given oral pain killers on discharge home; this medication should be effective.
• Although you are expected to feel quite well you will be advised to “take it easy” and perform only light duties for approximately two (2) weeks.
• Your doctor will certify an appropriate amount of time off work, depending on the procedure which you have had.
• In cases where the ovaries have been removed, you may need to use hormone replacement. The type of hormones and the length of time for which you’ll need to use them should be decided after discussion with your doctor.
• Since this type of surgery does not require a large incision through the abdomen, you can resume sexual intercourse sooner [usually about four (4) weeks] than with the more conventional methods.

Risks/Complications

As with all surgery, laparoscopic surgery does carry some risks. These include:

• Haemorrhage (heavy blood loss),
• Damage to the surrounding organs or structures,
• Subsequent infection,
• Thrombosis - development of blood clots (most commonly in the lower limbs).

A thorough pre-operative preparation, specific techniques used and precautions taken during the surgical procedure and afterwards, greatly reduce the likelihood of these complications developing.

How do you decide?

Your need for surgery and the type of surgery which is best for you can be decided after a frank and open discussion with your Gynaecologist. You should feel free to discuss your fears or any concerns you and/ or your partner or relatives may have, and to ask any questions.