Removal of ovary and tube via laporotomy. Experiences?

[Kricam78]

Hello all,

I had a laporoscopy in December last year where I was diagnosed stage 2 endo mainly in my pouch of douglas and on the broad ligament. It was also seen that my left ovary was adhered to my bowel and pelvic wall. Endo was ablated but nothing done with the adhesions.

Since the lap my pelvic pain has reduced noticeably, but my left sided pain (attributed to the adhered ovary) has increased. I also have left sided pain up to my left rib which the gynae considers may be more adhesions between the bowel and pelvic wall.

I have consented to removal of my left ovary and tube through a laporotomy (rather than a laporoscopy as apparently the ovary is 'buried'.) and further investigation up into the abdomen with division of any adhesions seen.

Has anyone had experience of unilateral oophorectomy, and if so did it have any affect on your hormones. Were you placed on any replacement hormones? I've tried to look online but it tends to talk of bilateral oophorectomy. I already take the combined pill and have the mirena coil fitted.

Also has anyone had experience of a laporotomy rather than a laporoscopy for gynae issues? I wasn't advised whether it would require overnight stays in hospital or how long I might be out of action for (considering work and my 3 year old here!). It doesn't seem that a laporotomy is much used these days.

TIA for any replies