Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy
Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy are two essential procedures used to help diagnose and treat infertility.
Laparoscopy allows doctors to see the outside of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. They can also perform some repairs during this procedure.
Hysteroscopy focuses on the inside of the uterus. It helps doctors find any problems and fix them if needed.
These procedures are usually done right after your period, which offers the most transparent view.
Laparoscopy
Your doctor might suggest a laparoscopy if you experience pelvic pain or have a history of pelvic disease. This procedure helps diagnose and treat issues like uterine fibroids, blocked tubes, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancies, ovarian cysts, adhesions, and other structural problems. Laparoscopy is often recommended if there are associated problems like fibroids.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to visualize and operate on the pelvic organs using a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen. If you have persistent pelvic pain or a history of pelvic disease, your doctor may recommend this procedure to accurately diagnose and address underlying conditions.
How is it Performed?
The procedure is typically done under general anaesthesia. A thin, telescope-like tube called a laparoscope is inserted into your abdomen through a small cut near your belly button. Carbon dioxide gas is then pumped in to separate the internal organs from the cavity wall, which improves visibility and helps prevent injuries.
A small probe is also inserted through a similar cut in your lower abdomen to examine the structures. Fluid is passed through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes to check for blockages. If any issues are found, they can be treated using surgical tools inserted through one or two additional cuts in your lower abdomen.
After the procedure, the tools are removed, the gas is released, and the cuts are closed with stitches.
What are the Risks and Complications?
After laparoscopy, you might feel some pain and bruising at the incision sites. You could also experience discomfort from the gas used during the procedure. The level of discomfort depends on what was done during the laparoscopy. Most people can go home the same day and return to normal activities within a few days.
Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is often recommended to find the causes of infertility, miscarriage, and unusual uterine bleeding. It is typically done after imaging tests like ultrasound. This procedure helps identify issues inside the uterine cavity, such as fibroids, polyps, scarring, and congenital disabilities. Sometimes, surgery can be performed during the hysteroscopy to fix these problems. Before the surgery, you may be given medications to prepare your uterus.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Hysteroscopy is an outpatient procedure that doesn't require any cuts. First, the cervical canal is temporarily widened using a series of dilators. A thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope is then inserted through the cervix to reach the uterus. Saline fluid is added through the hysteroscope to expand the uterine cavity, giving a clearer view of its interior
The hysteroscope has narrow channels for long surgical tools, allowing the doctor to perform any necessary procedures inside the uterus. After the procedure, a catheter may be left in the uterus. You may also receive medications to prevent infection and help with healing.
After hysteroscopy, it's normal to experience some cramping, vaginal discharge, and light bleeding for a few days. You can usually return to your normal activities within a day or two.
What are the Risks Associated with Hysteroscopy?
Both laparoscopy and hysteroscopy help diagnose and treat various gynaecological issues, including infertility. These procedures are minimally invasive, meaning they usually have fewer complications and shorter recovery times. Many can be done on an outpatient basis, allowing for diagnosis and treatment to occur in one visit, which reduces the need for multiple trips to the hospital.