Laparoscopy

What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine the organs within the pelvis and abdomen. A small camera is inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen, allowing gynaecological conditions to be assessed and treated.

When laparoscopy may be recommended

Laparoscopy may be recommended to investigate or treat:

• endometriosis

• pelvic pain

• ovarian cysts

• fertility problems

• other pelvic abnormalities

Treatment during laparoscopy

During laparoscopy it may be possible to treat certain conditions, including removal of ovarian cysts, treatment of endometriosis, or assessment of the pelvic organs as part of fertility investigations.

Recovery

Laparoscopy is performed under general anaesthetic. Most patients return home the same day, with recovery around two weeks.

Further information

Further patient information about menopause is available from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.