After your procedure

You may have abdominal and shoulder discomfort for 2 to 3 days, until the gas we use for the procedure is absorbed. (We pump gas into your abdomen during the procedure, so we can see your abdomen clearly.)

Follow this guidance

  • Follow the instructions we give you with your blood thinner injections. This will reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • We advise you to wear your stockings for at least 2 weeks.
  • Move around as much as possible. This will encourage your blood to flow and your wounds to heal, and build up strength in your muscles.
  • Rest when you need to and drink plenty of fluids.
  • After 24 hours, you can have a shower if you feel able to. You can leave the wound exposed, or you can cover it with a dressing (for example Mepore, Tegaderm or Opsite).
  • Do not take a bath or use a vaginal douche for 14 days.
  • Most patients do not have stitches (sutures) to remove. If you have stitches that need removing, we will let you know how to arrange this.

Returning to everyday activities

  • You can return to work in 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Do not restart any exercise programme for 6 weeks. When you restart, stick to low impact exercise. You can gradually build to your normal levels at about 3 months.
  • Do not drive for 6 weeks. Only drive when you are confident you can control your vehicle. Check with your insurer if you have questions.

Important

Do not:

  • have sexual intercourse for 6 weeks, or until your bleeding and discharge has stopped.
  • use tampons until the bleeding caused by this procedure has stopped. Use a pad for vaginal bleeding.

When to seek medical help

Call Alex Ward (see Contacts below), if you experience any of the following:

  • increasing pain which does not go away with painkillers
  • increasing or heavy bleeding
  • offensive discharge
  • fever
  • pain in your lower legs
  • oozing or redness of wound(s).

Contact information

Kingston Hospital Alex Ward

 

NHS emergency and urgent care service, call 111

You can also contact your GP or come to the Kingston Hospital Emergency Department (A&E)

Telephone:

Alex Ward: 020 8934 2301