Getting a laparoscopy

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains what laparoscopy procedures are, how they test for fertility issues and what some of the advantages of laparoscopy surgery are
What Is A Laparoscopy and How Is It Used In Fertility Evaluations
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Getting a laparoscopy

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A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. It is used often in fertility evaluations because we can easily look at the pelvic organs. With a laparoscopy, instruments are inserted into the abdominal cavity to perform the procedure. These instruments are inserted through small incisions in the belly. They are approximately about a centimeter long and there is usually about two to four incisions. During the laparoscopy, you will be asleep so that requires general anesthesia. The procedure itself usually lasts about one to three hours. And it is performed on outpatient basis. That means that you get to go home the same day. There are a lot of advantages to a laparoscopy. There is decreased bleeding during the surgery and there is also decreased post operative pain, which is really important to you as a patient. Oftentimes patients are able to get back to their normal routine within several days after surgery. Before your surgery, you are going to want to review all your preoperative instructions with a nurse at the office or the doctor. These will always include having nothing to eat or drink at least eight hours before surgery. And you are going to want to meet with your surgeon to discuss the procedure. You will sign the consent forms. You will discuss the risks and the benefits of surgery and most importantly have all of your questions answered.
PREGNANCY, Fertility, Infertility

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains what laparoscopy procedures are, how they test for fertility issues and what some of the advantages of laparoscopy surgery are

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Kristin Bendikson, MD

Fertility Specialist

Dr. Kristin A. Bendikson joined USC Fertility after finishing her obstetrics and gynecology residency at Harvard Medical School and completing her subspecialty training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the internationally renowned Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at Cornell University Medical College. During that time, she received intensive training in ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization and fertility surgery, as well as the management of other disorders including recurrent pregnancy loss, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Kristin received her undergraduate degree from UCLA and attended the prestigious New York University School of Medicine. Her extensive training and years in practice have prepared her to deal with the most difficult and challenging cases.

Kristin holds the title of Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the USC Keck School of Medicine. She is the currently the principal investigator of several research projects including the study of zygote intrafallopian tube transfer for women of advanced reproductive age, aging of the uterine endometrium and vitamin D and its role in infertility. It is her goal to provide the highest quality care for her patients and to help them fulfill their desire of having a healthy baby. In addition, she strives to guide her patients through what can be a trying and difficult journey by providing them with the support and personal attention they need.

Fertility expert, teacher, and researcher, Kristin is also a married mother of two. She resides in West Los Angeles with her family.

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