Surgical investigation for fertility

A surgical procedure will allow your consultant to have a look inside your body, to evaluate the structures of your reproductive system, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. There are two different procedures that your consultant may advise.
 

1. Laparoscopy

During this procedure a small telescope is inserted through a tiny 1cm incision inside the umbilicus and a second 1cm incision in the bikini line is used to introduce an instrument to enable the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes to be examined carefully.

As well as dye assessment of the tubes, gynaecological laparoscopy also allows a full assessment of the pelvis to look for and treat endometriosis, the presence of any scar tissue (adhesions) around the fallopian tubes or ovaries and some fibroids.

This would therefore be recommended to those struggling to conceive who also have gynaecological symptoms suggestive of any of those disorders such as painful periods, painful intercourse or pelvic pain.

More about a laparoscopy

2. Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy is a procedure performed under a general anaesthetic where the uterine cavity is assessed by introducing a small (5mm) telescope (hysteroscope) gently through the opening of the cervix. into the uterine cavity.

Polyps, fibroids, adhesions can be removed at the same time using a resectoscope.

Download our patient information leaflet about both of these operative procedures