A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure done with the person under general anesthesia.

A small incision in made under the belly button and a telescopic device is introduced into the abdomen. Usually, a small incision is made above the pelvic bone and a second instrument for manipulating the structures within the abdomen is introduced. Blue water can be flushed through the cervix and uterus can determine if the fallopian tubes are open.

Prior to the use of IVF, the diagnostic laparoscopy was a commonly performed procedure. Currently, diagnostic laparoscopies are seldom performed.