Women are encouraged to make annual appointments with their gynecologists for well-woman visits. In most cases, women will be given the all-clear and told to return in another year for their next physical. However, doctors may sometimes detect health problems that are best treated with surgery. Fortunately, there is a range of minimally invasive gynecological procedures that can be performed quickly and painlessly. Here are some conditions that can be treated using minimally invasive gynecological surgery:

1. Ovarian Cysts 

Ovarian cysts can occur on the ovaries or fallopian tubes. These cysts can cause significant pain if they rupture, which is why it's usually in patients' best interest to have painful cysts removed. Gynecologists can remove ovarian cysts using laparoscopic surgery, which utilizes a small camera inserted through an incision in the patient's abdomen. Doctors can then use this camera to guide their tools for the duration of the procedure. Laparoscopic surgery causes minimal scarring and encourages a quick recovery so women can get back on their feet as soon as possible.

2. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition that occurs when the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. The uterine lining may grow in the abdominal cavity and on neighboring organs. People with this condition may experience abnormally heavy and painful periods. Doctors can treat endometriosis using a procedure called endometrial ablation, which surgically removes the lining of the uterus. In many cases, doctors can perform this procedure hysteroscopically, which can ensure faster healing times since there will be no external incision. 

3. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Irregular menstrual cycles can have a number of different causes. Sometimes, the solution is as simple as correcting a hormonal imbalance through the use of birth control pills. However, some women cannot tolerate hormonal birth control or continue to experience abnormal bleeding despite its use. In these cases, doctors will investigate alternative solutions. Minimally invasive procedures, such as colposcopies and LEEPs, can be performed to rule out and treat cervical cancer that may cause abnormal bleeding.

4. Benign Growths

Sometimes, women may develop growths inside their uterus. These growths may be referred to as fibroids or polyps. Many uterine growths are benign, but they may cause unwanted symptoms, such as spotting between periods. Uterine fibroids and polyps may also make it more difficult for women to conceive. Doctors can remove fibroids and polyps laparoscopically through the abdomen or hysteroscopically through the cervix. In most cases, this procedure is performed using general anesthesia. 

To find out more, contact a company like Ob-Gyne Associates of Libertyville.