Abdominal Incision

A cut will be made. It will either be horizontal (side to side) across the pubic hair line, or vertical (up and down) from navel to pubic bone. Horizontal (bikini) incisions leave less of a scar. Vertical incisions give the surgeon a better view inside the abdomen. The abdominal muscles will be pulled apart. The surgeon will be able to see the ovaries. The blood vessels will be tied off. This will help to prevent bleeding. The ovaries, and often the fallopian tubes, will be removed. The cut will be closed with staples or stitches.

Laparoscopic Procedure

The laparoscope is a thin tool with a tiny camera on the end. It will be inserted through a small cut near the navel. This will let the surgeon see the pelvic organs on a video monitor. Other small cuts will be made. Special tools will be inserted through these cuts. The tools will be used to cut and tie off the blood vessels and fallopian tubes. The ovaries will be detached. They will then be removed through a small incision at the top of the vagina. The ovaries may also be cut into smaller sections and removed through the tiny cuts in the abdominal wall. The cuts will be closed with stitches. This will leave small scars.

At the Hospital

While you are recovering at the hospital, you may receive the following care:

• On the first night, you may be instructed to sit up in bed, or walk a short distance.
• The next morning, an IV will probably be removed if you are eating and drinking well.
• You may need to wear special socks or boots to help prevent blood clots.
• You may have a Foley catheter for a short time to help you urinate.

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

• Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Take proper care of the incision site. This will help prevent an infection.
• Ask your doctor about when it is safe to shower, bathe, or soak in water.
• Slowly increase your activities. Begin with light chores, short walks, and some driving. Depending on your job, you may be able to return to work. Returning to normal activities takes 2-6 weeks, depending on the type of surgery.
• To promote healing, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Try to avoid constipation by:
  • Eating high-fiber foods
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Using stool softeners if needed
• Ask your doctor when you can resume sexual activity.
• Some women may have emotional distress after their ovaries are removed. Counseling and/or a support group may help.

You will stop menstruating if both of your ovaries are removed. You will also not be able to get pregnant. You will still menstruate if one ovary or even just a portion of one ovary remains. You also may be able to get pregnant.