Just had third laporoscopy - recovery details.

[Endo19]

Hi

Just wanted to share with those that are waiting on a lap and don't know what to expect as this is my third time and I remember not knowing what to expect first time round. Hope this helps:

Pre-lap: nervous and chronic pain for about 3 years, which doubled this year with irregular cycles, heavy bleeding and pelvic pain constantly they ovulation and menstration.

Lap: stage 3 this time and ovaries stuck to uterus, Endo found across and behind womb, although has been much worse in the past. Overnight stay as feeling sick and unable to pass urine. Keyhole 3 incisions under belly button.

Post lap: very bloated as they use gas to inflate stomache, in pain around dissolvable stitches, some bruising, gas travelled up to shoulders causing stabbing sensations first 48 hours which passed, suppressed diet prob due to general anaesethic, unable to open Bowles and struggling with passing urine. Some bleeding but general unwell feeling when on my feet and in bed.

Day 7 now all seems to be easing slowly but still in pain. I have estimated being off work two weeks will see what doc says later.

Recommendations: I swear peppermint tea has been my saviour this time helping with the gas issues, avoided milk as couldn't stomache it for 3 days at least post op, take as much pain relief as sugessted, basically to keep on top of it and sleep as much as possible. Avoid bending and lifting if possible for at least 3 days post op. I used heat pads to help relieve shoulder pain with gas which seemed to help and keep those stockings on! Eat little but frequently to assist sickness and I have used stuff to help constipation.

All in all not a nice experience mentally exhausting as well as physically but worth it if it means a reduction in the amount of pain I've had for the past few years, first cycle expected to be irregular the next one will tell.

Do try and speak to gynae after operation in fact insist so you know what they have done, I left knowing exactly what and he showed me pictures also I couldn't wait another 6 weeks not knowing how bad it was and being left to my own imagination.

Do take an overnight bag, gown, slippers, pads, pajamas as you may need to stay in like I did but if you pass ruined they do let you go home the same day.

Good luck, having had three I can say it's worth the relief.