Common gynaecological surgeries are hysteroscopy (telescope looking into the uterus) and laparoscopy (key-hole surgery looking into the abdomen). Most of the time, these are day procedures. Deciding to have surgery is a significant decision, and how to prepare for them is equally important.
Here are some suggestions as advised by Embrace Fertility’s gynaecologist with a special interest in fertility and reproductive medicine, Dr Tran Nguyen:
Before your laparoscopy or hysteroscopy surgery:
Try to optimise your weight and cease oral contraceptive pills one month prior to surgery, to reduce risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, which are very rare complications. You will need to use other forms of contraception in this time.
At home before your surgery:
Organise your house prior to surgery by moving things within an easy-to-reach level, such as waist height. This will minimise discomfort if you’re lifting, bending, or reaching.
The day before your surgery:
Expect a phone call from the hospital at least a day before surgery to confirm the time and date of your hospital admission.
Remove all jewellery, piercings, and nail polish the day before you go to the hospital and put them in a safe place that you will remember later.
After midnight the night before your laparoscopy or hysteroscopy surgery, avoid food and drink or as advised by your hospital.
The day of your laparoscopy or hysteroscopy surgery:
Avoid hair products and wearing make-up the day of your surgery the morning, but brush your teeth, wash your face and leave your dental retainer at home. If you wear glasses, you can keep those with you. They are preferred over contact lenses.
Wear comfortable loose clothing on the day and bring your medications, supplements, CT or ultrasound reports for the hospital admission.
What should I bring to the hospital?
Consider bringing in an overnight bag and extra essentials in case you need to stay, and have reading material, or handheld device and earphones, which can help to personalise your hospital stay.
Going to the hospital:
Please make sure you allow plenty of time to travel to the hospital. Parking and traffic can be unpredictable. If you are late, your surgery may need to be rescheduled. Getting ready for surgery is like getting ready to go to the airport for a flight. You need plenty of time to ensure you don’t miss your surgery.
At the hospital:
Once you have arrived at hospital, you will need to check in at admissions and be directed to the ward. This can be day stay or in another part of the hospital. You will be reviewed by the ward nursing team, anaesthetic team, and surgical team who will chat with you and conduct a couple of standard procedures, like going through your forms with you, checking to see if you’re allergic to anything and talking you through what will happen in your procedure.
Preparing for surgery can be overwhelming, with lots of information and instructions to remember. If you have any questions, please contact your doctor’s rooms to ensure your concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
Contact Embrace Fertility Adelaideto chat about how we can help you.
Dr Tran Nguyen is a South Australian gynaecologist with a special interest in fertility and reproductive medicine. Dr Nguyen is passionate about providing optimal care for South Australians exploring Adelaide fertility options, and provides the support and expertise necessary for a successful fertility journey.