Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) allows the internal organs of the abdomen and the pelvis to be inspected visually. It is a method for directly assessing the ovaries, fallopian tubes and surrounding structures in order to see if they are normal. Not all women, however, will need a laparoscopy as a part of their evaluation.

A woman will be put to sleep for this operation, which requires a day in hospital. A telescopic instrument, as thin as a pencil, is introduced just below the navel allowing examination of the pelvic organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. In order to gain a better view of the structures, the abdomen is firstly ‘expanded’ slightly using carbonic acid. A second, smaller cut is made just above the pubic hair in order to insert surgical instruments. Laparoscopy is sometimes called ‘band-aid’ surgery, as the incisions are extremely small and can normally be covered with a plaster. Aside from the examination of the structure, the fallopian tubes can be tested by the introduction of a coloured dye through the cervix into the uterus. If the tubes are open, the operator will see the dye emerging into the abdomen.

This procedure is often photographed or recorded on videotape, so that the doctor and couple can view the results at a later date. After the operation, you might suffer from nausea and/or a painful abdomen for a few hours. Pain in the shoulders is also a possibility. As a result of the examination, you will have two small scars, which will be barely visible in time. As with every operation, there is a small chance of complications developing, such as bleeding or infection. Recovery is mostly smooth and normal activities can quickly be resumed.