These two kinds of procedures both allow a doctor to observe the reproductive organs in order to diagnose or identify factors that contribute to infertility – while also giving the physician the ability to remove issues like scar tissue, polyps, and fibroids. Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy differ in the point of entry for a camera, and the areas observed.Â
Most patients will not need a laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. These procedures are only recommended if imaging or your medical history suggests there may be a uterine or pelvic issue that could affect success. In those cases, they can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, to help you achieve a healthy pregnancy.
Most insurance plans cover laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. Our financial coordinators will help you verify coverage and obtain any required pre-certification.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that allows a doctor to look directly at the pelvic organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This is done using a small camera inserted through the belly button. This procedure helps diagnose and often treat conditions that can affect fertility or cause pelvic pain.
A Laparoscopy can evaluate and treat:
Endometriosis
Fibroids
Ovarian cysts
Scar tissue
Other pelvic disorders
Because treatment can often be done at the same time as diagnosis, laparoscopy is both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in fertility care!
Laparoscopies are an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. This means it will be done in-office instead of in a hospital, and you will be fully asleep during the process.
The procedure typically takes about 60-90 minutes, and patients will spend a couple hours in a recovery room before going home.Â
It typically takes 3-4 days for the soreness and effects of anesthesia to wear off and for a patient to be fully recovered. Pain medications are offered to patients to reduce discomfort.
A Hysteroscopy uses a thin telescope, inserted through the cervix into the uterus, to directly view inside the uterine cavity to identify and treat abnormalities. No incisions are required for this procedure!
A Hysteroscopy can evaluate and treat:
Fibroids or polyps
Scar tissue
Uterine septum or other uterine malformations
Blockages at the opening of the fallopian tubes
Hysteroscopies are an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. This means it will be done in-office instead of in a hospital, and you will be fully asleep during the process.
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes, and patients will spend a couple hours in a recovery room before going home.Â
Patients are usually fully recovered within 1-2 days.
Read our blog for more information about infertility, IVF and more.