Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure used to treat or diagnose infertility problems in women. The procedure involves inserting a laparoscope and other instruments into the stomach through small cuts in the abdomen. This procedure helps the doctor to view the reproductive organs such as fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. If required, the doctor can make required repairs without the need for a long recovery period.

Many women are worried if laparoscopy can affect their chances of conception. But the fact is, the procedure focuses on treating infertility issues and eventually the chances of conception increase.

When is Laparoscopy Recommended?

The doctor may suggest a laparoscopy surgical procedure to determine the cause of infertility. The doctor recommends this procedure only if the signs indicate infertility or only after performing an infertility test.

The following can be the reasons for suggesting laparoscopy:

• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Severe pelvic pain and painful menstrual cycle
• If there are chances of ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

Laparoscopic surgery can help treat the following infertility issues in women:

• Moderate to severe endometriosis
• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Ovarian cysts which are blocking the fallopian tubes
• Any abnormalities in the reproductive system
• Scar tissue
• Fibroids
• PCOS

Apart from these issues, the laparoscopic procedure can also look if a woman has an unexplained infertility problem. In this case, the procedure is performed when the other tests show normal results.

The laparoscopic procedure is highly suitable to look for some causes of infertility. The surgery not only examines the reproductive organs, but also identifies if there is any growth of cysts.

How is Laparoscopic Procedure Performed?

Before performing the procedure, the doctor will give you the required instructions. The doctor will instruct to you stop eating and drinking 8 hours before undergoing the procedure and also prescribes antibiotics. 

Laparoscopy is performed in the hospital by giving anaesthesia. This helps you to handle the pain and discomfort during the procedure. The doctor will make small cuts on the abdomen to send gas through a needle. The gas will make it easier for the doctor to look at the organs and insert other required surgical instruments. Once the gas is filled, the needle will be removed and the camera, laparoscope and other instruments are inserted. Using the camera, the doctor can view the organs and can move the organs around to look more clearly.

The doctor will identify the shape, and size of the reproductive organs. He will also look for cysts, fibroids, or endometrial growths. To know if the fallopian tubes are blocked, a dye will be injected from the cervix. A sample of tissue may be collected for further testing.

If required, the doctor will insert additional instruments by making other incision to treat the identified issue.

Will Laparoscopy Affect My Chances of Pregnancy?

Many women have doubt if laparoscopy can affect their chances of conception. Laparoscopy will not affect your chances of pregnancy. In fact, laparoscopic surgery increases the chances of pregnancy. This is because the underlying infertility problem will be resolved with a laparoscopy procedure.

But the following can delay your pregnancy:

• Recovery time: Though laparoscopy is less invasive, you need some time to recover from surgery and it might delay your conception. You may experience mild pain and bloating after the procedure. You should give your body enough time to heal and doctors recommend not to participate in sexual intercourse until the incision is healed. You should have enough nutrition, rest and take care of your incision site. Stay away from sex if you experience pain during intercourse.
• Scarring: A few women might have little scarring in the pelvic cavity which can affect their chances of conception. The expertise and skills of the surgeon are crucial to avoid side effects following the procedure. This is because the doctor will be using only tools, camera and the hand movement is limited.

Want to Know More About Laparoscopy? Visit IRA Fertility Today

If you are confused about whether you can undergo laparoscopy or not, meet doctors at IRA Fertility today. IRA Fertility has a team of Fertility Specialists who are expertise at performing laparoscopy. Before performing surgery, they will ensure you are the right candidate for the procedure. We use the latest tools to avoid any possible side effects and to enhance the safety of our patients. Do not worry too much if the procedure affects your fertility, schedule your appointment with us to start your family.