When your doctor suspects that endometriosis, adhesions, or organ malfunction might be keeping you from conceiving, you might be recommended to have a laparotomy (lah-puh-RAW-tuh-me). Here's how it works. First, carbon dioxide is used to expand the abdominal cavity for better viewing. The doctor will then insert a scope through an incision made inside the navel or just below it. The scope allows the doctor to view the outside of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Sometimes the doctor might make a second incision just below the pubic hairline to insert an instrument that gently manipulates the organs and provides a view from different angles. Endometriosis, uterine tissue found in places other than the uterus, or other abnormalities can be corrected at this point of the surgery if your doctor chooses to do so. You will be under general anesthesia during surgery, but afterwards you might experience some pain, cramping, and/or some spotting. The anesthesia might cause you some shoulder pain or nausea. You might need some time to relax and recover after your laparotomy.
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