Questions Following Laparoscopy
I am a 39-year-old woman weighing 132 pounds, and I am currently three days post-operation from an endometrial ablation procedure combined with laparoscopy, during which some scar tissue adhesions were excised. I am experiencing discomfort around the surgical incisions, particularly aggravated by movement, and I’ve also noticed a sensation of pain and pressure in my neck, back, and shoulders. Could anyone clarify whether such pain is typical after these procedures?
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 7:20:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's normal to experience some discomfort and pain after a laparoscopic procedure, including endometrial ablation and adhesion excision, especially within the first few days post-surgery. The discomfort around your surgical incisions is expected as your body heals. The sensation of pain and pressure in your neck, back, and shoulders may be related to the gas used during the procedure, which can irritate the diaphragm and cause referred pain in these areas.
Here’s a bit more detail and what to focus on:
Explanation:
- After laparoscopic surgery, it's common to have incision site discomfort as the tissues heal, which can last for several days to a week.
- Pain in the neck, back, and shoulders can occur due to carbon dioxide gas used during surgery; it can irritate the nerves in the diaphragm, leading to discomfort in those areas.
- Remember that healing can differ from person to person, and what you’re experiencing is a known reaction.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your pain levels and any other symptoms. Note if they worsen or if you develop new symptoms, such as fever, increasing redness around incisions, or severe abdominal pain.
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Pain Management: Consider using over-the-counter pain relief medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, unless contraindicated for you. Follow the dosing instructions on the package for safety.
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Gentle Movement: Try to engage in light activities or gentle stretching as tolerated to help relieve some tension. However, avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during your recovery.
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Hydration and Rest: Stay well-hydrated and allow your body ample time to heal. Rest is essential, and any positions that alleviate pressure on your abdomen may also help ease discomfort.
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Follow-Up Plan: If your pain worsens significantly, if you experience severe discomfort that affects your daily activities, or if you have any concerning symptoms, it may be important to seek medical advice.
Take care, and be patient with your recovery. Healing takes time, and it's important to listen to your body. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional information!
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