BASIC INFORMATION: Laparoscopy is a procedure that allows visual examination and some treatments of the pelvic and abdominal organs. The procedure is performed with a laparoscope, a small lighted telescope.
POSTPROCEDURE CARE:
1. Expect some soreness around any incision site; this is normal. Your pain symptoms should improve every day.
2. Remove bandage in 24 hours.
3. Then you may bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild soap.
4. Remove Steri-Strips in 1 week.
5. If the procedure was for sterilization and you were taking birth-control pills, finish your present package; then you no longer need birth-control methods.
6. Use sanitary pad (not tampons) for slight vaginal bleeding, which may occur after surgery.
7. To help recovery and aid your well-being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.
8. Nothing in the vagina (sexual intercourse, tampons, douches) for 4 weeks.
9. No tub baths or swimming for 2-4 weeks.
MEDICATIONS:
1. Prescription pain medication should generally only be required for 2 to 7 days following the procedure.
2. You may use nonprescription drugs, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen for minor pain.
• DO NOT take additional Tylenol (acetaminophen) with prescription medication that already has Tylenol in it.
3. Pain medications tend to constipate. Please take a stool softener, or prune juice as needed.
4. Resume driving when you stop taking narcotics.
DIET:
1. Resume your regular diet.
CALL FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
1. You develop signs of infection; headache; muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever of greater than 100.
2. You have bleeding soaking more than 1 pad per hour or discharge from either the surgical area or the vagina.
3. You vomit more than 2 days after surgery or are unable to keep liquids down.
YOU MAY CALL THE GYNECOLOGY OFFICE AT 541-754-1267
