Surgical Services

Overview

Safe, expert gynaecological surgery with a focus on your comfort and a smooth recovery. If you need gynaecological surgery, you can trust the specialist team at Minerva Women's Healthcare with your care. We offer a range of surgical services, including minimally invasive options where suitable, aimed at the best outcome with the least recovery time. Schedule a consultation with us by phone or online today.

At a glance

Surgery is usually recommended when other treatments have not worked, or when it is in your best interest to prevent serious complications
Where possible, we use minimally invasive techniques, which usually mean smaller cuts, less pain and a faster recovery
You will be fully informed about your options, the risks and the benefits before any decision is made
Your surgeon will give you clear instructions before and after your procedure
Some procedures are elective, such as permanent birth control

What are my gynaecological surgery options?

We offer surgical care for you when the need arises, including minimally invasive and in-office procedures where appropriate. Procedures include:

Dilation and curettage (D&C)
Endometrial ablation
Tubal sterilisation
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
Hysterectomy
Laparoscopy
Myomectomy
Hysteroscopy

What do these procedures involve?

Dilation and curettage (D&C): The cervix is gently opened and tissue is removed from the lining of the uterus, to diagnose or treat conditions such as abnormal bleeding or to manage a miscarriage.

Endometrial ablation: A procedure that treats the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.

Tubal sterilisation: Permanent birth control, in which the fallopian tubes are blocked or sealed.

LEEP: Removal of abnormal cervical cells using a thin wire loop with a gentle electrical current, after an abnormal Pap smear and biopsy.

Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus, sometimes with the cervix, ovaries or tubes, depending on the condition being treated.

Laparoscopy: Keyhole surgery, using a small camera and instruments through tiny cuts in the abdomen, to diagnose or treat conditions such as endometriosis, cysts or adhesions.

Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.

Hysteroscopy: A thin camera passed through the vagina and cervix to look inside the uterus, and to remove polyps or small fibroids.

Why might I need gynaecological surgery?

You may choose elective surgery, for example for permanent birth control or to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Your doctor may also recommend surgery if you have:

Cervical or ovarian cancer
Abnormal tissue
Heavy bleeding
Uterine fibroids
Endometriosis
Infertility caused by structural problems
Ovarian cysts
Ectopic pregnancy
Pelvic pain
Vulvar disorders

Surgery is often recommended when other treatments have not worked, or when it is in your best interest to prevent serious gynaecological complications. We will always explain the alternatives so you can make an informed choice.

What happens before surgery?

Before your surgery, follow all the instructions we give you. These may include:

Not eating or drinking for a set time before the procedure
Stopping or adjusting certain medicines, such as blood thinners
Having blood tests or other checks beforehand
Arranging for someone to take you home and stay with you afterwards

Tell us about your medical history, medicines and any allergies. You will have the chance to ask questions and give your consent before the procedure.

What happens during surgery?

Just before surgery, you will receive local, regional or general anaesthesia, so you do not feel any pain. Depending on the procedure, your surgeon may operate through a small cut in your lower abdomen, through keyhole incisions, or through the vagina. How long the surgery takes depends on the procedure.

What should I expect afterwards?

Many procedures allow you to go home the same day, but you must have someone take you home. Rest, eat well and avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon says it is safe. Take your medicines as prescribed and follow all post-operative instructions. Recovery time depends on the procedure, and we will tell you what to expect.

Contact us promptly if you have heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, trouble passing urine, or redness or swelling at the surgical site.

Common questions

Will I be asleep during surgery?

It depends on the procedure. You may have local, regional or general anaesthesia. Your team will explain which is best for you.

How long will recovery take?

It varies. Minor procedures may need only a few days, while larger operations take several weeks. We will give you a clear timeline.

Will I need a hysterectomy?

Not always. Many conditions can be treated with medicines or less extensive procedures. A hysterectomy is recommended only when it is the best option for you.

Can I still have children after surgery?

It depends on the procedure. Some, such as myomectomy, are designed to preserve fertility. Others, such as hysterectomy and tubal sterilisation, end the ability to have children. Please discuss your plans with us beforehand.

Ready to talk about surgery?

Schedule a consultation with Minerva Women's Healthcare online or by calling our office. It takes about a minute, and no account is needed.

Book appointment