Laparoscopy utilizes a telescopic instrument to look directly into the abdomen and pelvis. The laparoscope has a light source and a viewing system attached video camera connected to a computer monitor. This allows visualization and photography of the procedure.
Pelvic organs (the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes) can now be viewed.
At this time the fallopian tubes are cauterized (burned), cut, clipped or removed, depending on how your individual physician performs the procedure.
The tubes are PERMANENTLY BLOCKED NOT ALLOWING FERTILIZATION TO TAKE PLACE.
The procedure generally has no other affect on you in regard to hormones, menstrual cycles, sexual functioning, orgasm or onset of menopause.
The inability to become pregnant is immediate and coincident with severing the fallopian tubes. Patients are encouraged to also consider long term, reversible contraception before making a lifetime decision for permanent sterilization.
Laparoscopy is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Most patients leave the surgical facility within an hour and will be advised to limit activity such as driving, until the following day.