To diagnose certain problems, a doctor needs to look directly into the abdomen and at the reproductive organs. This can be done with laparoscopy.

The word laparoscopy comes from the Greek words that mean "look into the abdomen." A laparoscope is a small telescope that is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision (cut). It brings light into the abdomen so the doctor can see inside. Laparoscopy is usually done on an outpatient basis - you don't have to stay in the hospital overnight.

There are several reasons why laparoscopy may be recommended. If your doctor suspects that you have a certain problem, he or she may use laparoscopy to confirm the diagnosis. Laparoscopy may be used if you have problems with infertility or if you want to be sterilized. It is also used to check for ectopic pregnancy, causes of pelvic pain, and masses.

Besides using the laparoscope to look into the abdomen to diagnose a problem, your doctor can use it for treatment as well. For some procedures, laparoscopy has replaced the need for laparotomy. Laparotomy involves opening the abdomen to operate on reproductive organs.