Laparoscopy can help physicians diagnose many gynecological problems including endometriosis, uterine fibroids and other structural abnormalities, ovarian cysts, adhesions (scar tissue), and ectopic pregnancy. If you have pain, history of past pelvic infection, or symptoms suggestive of pelvic disease, your physician may recommend this procedure as part of your evaluation. Laparoscopy is sometimes recommended after completing an initial infertility evaluation on both partners. It is usually performed soon after menstruation ends.

Laparoscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. After the patient is under anesthesia, a telescope is placed through the navel. Carbon dioxide gas is used to fill the abdomen, which pushes the abdominal wall away from the internal organs and decreases the risk of injury to surrounding organs such as the bowel, bladder, and blood vessels. Occasionally, alternate sites may be used for the insertion of the laparoscope based upon physician experience or the patient’s prior surgical or medical history. These incisions are typically small (usually less than 1 inch in length). While looking through the laparoscope, the physician can see the reproductive organs including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

A small probe is usually inserted through another incision, in the lower abdomen, in order to move the pelvic organs into clear view. Additionally, a fluid is often injected through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes to determine if the tubes are open. If no abnormalities are noted at this time, one or two stitches close the incisions. If abnormalities are discovered, diagnostic laparoscopy can become operative laparoscopy.