Doctors prefer to do endoscopies in a hospital with patients put under local anesthesia. Before the culdoscope can be inserted properly, the woman is positioned on the table in a kneeling position, leaning forward with her bottom higher than her chest and her head resting on her arm. Before the procedure, the vagina is washed to the point of sterilization. This is the first possible snag of culdoscopy. Since complete vaginal sterilization is impossible, there is an inherent risk of infection and doctors must proceed cautiously. After she is coveted with a sterile drape, the doctor administers a spinal or epidural anesthetic, or the woman can be given a painkiller like Demerol as well A specialized speculum is then inserted into the vagina to permit a better view of the cervix. About now, a local anesthetic is injected into the vagina and a small probe inserted blindly through the vaginal wall. When the probe is in place, a larger probe containing the culdoscope is inserted. Looking through the culdoscope, the doctor can inspect the area just behind the uterus, the ovaries, and the tubes. Since the intestines tend to fall forward while in this kneeling position, the doctor has a less obstructed view to check for any abnormality in the area.
Aftereffects of culdoscopy are usually not troublesome. If you are scheduled for one, expect minimal pelvic pain for a day or two after surgery. Doctors will advise abstinence from intercourse for three or four weeks or until complete healing has occurred. Unlike laparoscopy, which is not as debilitating, culdoscopy will require rest at home for a week or two and avoidance of stress-filled work schedules.
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