Laparoscopy

A laparoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the abdomen and pelvis. It involves passing a narrow telescope through the umbilicus into the abdominal cavity. Usually between 1 - 4 small 1 - 2 cm cuts are made to allow various instruments to be passed into the abdominal cavity for this "keyhole" surgery. The procedure can be combined with chromotubation (dye test) to check if the Fallopian tubes are blocked.

When abnormalities are found during laparoscopy, it may be possible to offer treatment at the same time. This may involve removing ovarian cysts, diseased Fallopian tubes and fibroids, ablating or excising endometriosis, and dividing adhesions. Ectopic pregnancies may be removed laparoscopically. Ovarian drilling may be indicated in women with PCOS .

Before having the procedure, you should read patient information on laparoscopy from the RCOG so that you are clear what to expect. If you are also having a hysteroscopy, please read the section on Hysteroscopy.