Endometrial Ablation

This is an operation used to treat heavy menstrual periods. It is a simpler operation than hysterectomy. The operations destroy the lining of the womb and this leads to much reduction in menstruation.

The Novasure system destroys the lining of the womb by applying electrical energy while Thermachoice uses a balloon that is filled with heated fluid. About 80 - 90% of women who undergo this procedure will have reduced menstrual bleeding while about 35 - 45% of patients will stop having periods.

The operation may be performed under local or general anaesthesia. You should expect to go home on the same day as your operation.

Hysterectomy

This is the surgical removal of the womb. Hysterectomy may be total and this involves the removal of the entire womb and the neck of the womb, the cervix. The neck of the womb may be left behind at the request of the patient or if the surgeon believes it is the safest option during the operation. This is called a subtotal or partial hysterectomy. The womb may be removed through the vagina (vaginal hysterectomy) or through the abdomen (abdominal hysterectomy).

Mr. Jaiyesimi may discuss the removal of both ovaries in women over 45years who are having a hysterectomy. This is to prevent problems in the ovaries in future. The final decision as to whether this is done rests with the patient.

Hysteroscopy

This is a minor operation which involves the use of a telescopic equipment to inspect the inside cavity or the womb in women with problems with their periods. It can show up conditions such as polyps, fibroids and cancer. The operation may be performed in conjunction with a D&C.

The equipment may also be used to treat women with menstrual problems due to fibroids that are seen within the cavity of the womb. The operation can be carried out under local or general anaesthesia, and you should expect to go home on the same day as your operation

Implanon Insertion

This is an effective form of contraception in which Implanon, a single rod about the size of a match stick, is inserted under the skin of a woman's upper arm. The rod contains a progestogen hormone (etonorgestrel) that is released slowly over a three year period and this prevents ovulation. Insertion of the rod is simple and is performed under local anaesthesia.

You may request to have the rod removed at any time but it must be removed after three years. Removal of implanon is simple and is performed under local anaesthesia. The ability to fall pregnant returns soon after the removal of the rod and is the same as they were before the implanon was inserted.

Labial Reduction Surgery

This is also called labioplasty or labial trimming. Enlarged or elongated labia may cause discomfort when sitting or difficulties during intercourse or while inserting tampons. Some women find the appearance of the enlarged labia unacceptable.

The decision to undergo labial reduction surgery should not be taken lightly as it has risks. This includes bleeding, infection, scarring and painful intercourse. The procedure may be carried out under local or general anaesthesia. Mr. Jaiyesimi recommends that you spend one night in hospital rather than go home on the same day. This is because of the degree of pain you may experience and the small risk of bleeding after the operation.

Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery)

This operation is often used to find the cause of abdominal pain, infertility or other problems in the reproductive organs. In these cases, a doctor cannot tell from a physical exam or from a patient’s symptoms exactly what is wrong. A look inside the body is carried out under general anaesthesia. The operation may confirm the presence of problems such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts or adhesions. You should expect to go home on the same day as your operation.

Myomectomy

Women who have fibroids that cause heavy periods or pain and who still hope to have children may have the fibroids removed. This operation is called myomectomy and it is carried out under general anaesthesia. Only the fibroids are removed and the womb is preserved. You should expect to be discharged from hospital three to five days after your operation.

Sterilisation

This is often referred to as “tubal tie” or tubal occlusion or ligation. It is for women who are certain that they no longer want to have more children and who want a permanent method of contraception.

It may be done through keyhole surgery, laparoscopy, at which small clips are placed across a portion of each fallopian tube. Alternatively, a portion of each tube is cut away. These methods prevent the sperm and egg
from reaching each other and in doing so prevents pregnancies from occurring.

Reversal of Female Sterilisation

This operation is performed after a woman who has been sterilised seeks to have more children. The gynaecologist may require the couple to have some simple tests. For the woman, this involves blood tests to prove ovulation and for the man it will be necessary to check two semen samples.

The operation requires a general anaesthetic and a two to three day in hospital. You may try for a pregnancy as soon as you feel well to do so. There is an increased risk of pregnancy in the tube (ectopic pregnancy) if you become pregnant after the operation.