Laser Surgery In Gynecology: Q And A With Dr. Mariam Iqbal

Laser surgery is a relatively new technology with minimal side effects; the procedure involves laser beams being employed to destroy microscopic lesions with high precision in the female genital tract in case of gynecology issues. 

Dr. Mariam Iqbal is a gynecologist in Lahore who specializes in helping patients with modern surgical treatment of gyne and related women-health issues. In this session with oladoc, she talks about a number of gynecological problems and their treatments, in particular, laser surgery as a treatment mechanism.

Q.1: How has the modern practice of gynecology changed over time?

In the past ten to twelve years, technology has come a long way in this field. There has been a shift from conventional methods to minimal procedures which are much safer and effective.

Treatments such as medicines, injections are much more preferred than operations. Laser is not a new technology; it has been used for skin rejuvenation and eye problems since 1960. In 2012, laser was approved by the FDA in United States and six years later, it made its way to hospitals in Pakistan.

Q.2: Which patients can benefit from laser technology?

Females who have experienced natural aging which causes significant body changes such as laxity benefit from laser. Moreover, those who suffer from urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine) have benefited greatly from laser technology. There are two types of urinary incontinence, in one case the patient thinks of passing urine but is unable to even reach the washroom to do so.

In the other case, actions like coughing, sneezing or laughing causes involuntary leakage of urine.  These patients suffer social embarrassment and their quality of life is greatly impacted. Also, patients suffering from prolapse, a condition where the uterus comes out of the body due to multiple back to back deliveries benefit from laser technology because it’s safer and efficient. 

Laser Surgery In Gynecology: Q And A With Dr. Mariam Iqbal

Q.3: What conditions/diseases can be cured using this technology?

Menopause and natural ageing processes can be effectively managed by laser. The average age for menopause in Pakistan is 51, after which most women experience irritation, infections, itching and problems in their marital life. Before the advent of laser, hormonal treatments were used which are much less preferred owing to the large number of side effects they cause.

Moreover, laser is also safer for cancer patients whose ovaries have been removed with chemotherapy. Warts on intimate areas can also be effectively managed with the use of laser treatment and proper consultation. 

Q.4: Is it a surgical procedure? Does it require a hospital stay?

Laser is a walk-in procedure. It is not an operation, no prior anaesthesia, medications or diets are prescribed. It is much like a checkup, which takes up to fifteen to twenty minutes. It is a routine procedure with minimum side effects. 

Q.5: How common are these problems in women?

These problems are unfortunately very common among females in Pakistan, about 1 in 4 women experience urine continence. About 80% of women face vaginal problems after menopause. 

If you want to learn more about how laser surgery has changed gynecology, then watch the full interview. You can find and book an appointment with the best gynecologist . You can book appointments via the website, mobile app or by calling our helpline at 042-3890-0939.