What to expect after laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis

What can I expect after laparoscopy for endometriosis?

Laparotomy Surgery for Endometriosis

As with laparoscopy, you’ll get medicine to put you to sleep. Your doctor will cut through your skin and muscle so they can see into your abdomen and take out affected tissue. After the surgery, your doctor will close the cut and move you to a recovery area.

What is the recovery time for laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis?

It can take a week or more before you’re ready to return to your regular activities. You should be able to resume having sex within two to four weeks following the procedure, but check with your doctor first.

How long do you bleed after a laparoscopy for endometriosis?

Vaginal bleeding up to 1 month after surgery is normal. Many women do not have their next normal menstrual cycle for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. When your normal cycle returns, you might notice heavier bleeding and more discomfort than usual.

How long should you be off work after a laparoscopy?

Most women feel able to return to work one to three weeks after a laparoscopy. If you have had a diagnostic laparoscopy or a simple procedure such as a sterilisation, you can expect to feel able to go back to work within one week.

Where does the gas go after laparoscopic surgery?

During laparoscopy, the surgeon makes a small cut (incision) of around 1 to 1.5cm (0.4 to 0.6 inches), usually near your belly button. A tube is inserted through the incision, and carbon dioxide gas is pumped through the tube to inflate your tummy (abdomen).

How do you feel after endometriosis surgery?

It is common to feel emotional after a laparoscopy. Coming down off of the anesthetic causes some people to cry or feel weepy. People may also feel emotional or overwhelmed after receiving a diagnosis, as it can take an average of 10 years from the onset of symptoms to receive an endometriosis diagnosis.

How do I get rid of trapped gas after laparoscopic surgery?

Manipulation of bowels during laparoscopic surgery can leave the bowels ‘stunned’. General anaesthesia can slow down the bowels, preventing the passage of gas and stool. Walking encourages the peristaltic movement of the bowels, relieving gas and constipation. A heat pack may also provide relief.

What can you not do after laparoscopic surgery?

DO NOT drive, participate in sports, or use heavy equipment while you’re taking narcotic pain medication. You may take a shower or bath 2 days after your surgery.

How long do you stay in hospital after a laparoscopy?

The length of your hospital stay will depend on the type of procedure you have and how quickly you recover. For example, the average hospital stay for a laparoscopic rectopexy ranges from one to two days, and up to three days for a laparoscopic bowel resection.

How long does it take to heal internally after laparoscopy?

Recovery: what to expect in the next few weeks

Full recovery takes about two weeks to allow for internal healing. Some women have vaginal bleeding for a month after surgery. This is normal.

What can you not do after endometriosis surgery?

Endometriosis Specialist

1. Do not drive for at least 3 days after surgery.
2. Start walking around as soon as you get home. …
3. Wear loose, non-binding clothes.
4. You may shower the day after surgery. …
5. No douching, tampon application, tub baths, swimming, or sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after surgery.

What is the fastest way to recover from laparoscopic surgery?

You can usually resume all normal activities within a week. You’ll need to attend a follow-up appointment with your doctor about two weeks after laparoscopy. Here are some things you can do to ensure a smoother recovery: Begin light activity as soon as you’re able, in order to reduce your risk of blood clots.

How long will my stomach be swollen after laparoscopy?

Side effects and complications of laparoscopy

This is due to the small amount of gas that is pumped into the abdomen to make it easier to see. These side effects generally settle within a few days , but bloating can take several weeks to resolve in some people.

How do I clean my belly button after laparoscopy?

To clean the incision:

1. Gently wash it with soap and water to remove the crust.
2. Do not scrub or soak the wound.
3. Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine, which can harm the tissue and slow wound healing.
4. Air-dry the incision or pat it dry with a clean, fresh towel before reapplying the dressing.