Laparoscopy for Fertility: Understanding Your Options

Question
Hello -
I am 38 and my husband is 40.  Since April of this year we have been going through a series of tests because we have not yet been fortunate enough to get pregnant.   All the tests (blood work, semen analysis, HSG, sonogram) have come back as good without any issues.   At this point my doctor would like to do a laparoscopy.    I have a consultation appt. next week about this and am unsure if this is something I should do.  I believe she wants to see if there is any chance I have endometriosis but since I do not have any outward symptoms of this I'm not sure if it is necessary.      Is the laparoscopy a normal course of procedure?   What if I elect not to have that done, what would be my next steps?   I have reached the point that my patience is getting the best of me and I want something to try vs. just having these tests done.   I am willing do try medication or IUI procedures.   Any thoughts or suggestions?

Answer
Dear Michelle,

For some doctors and in some cases, laparoscopy is used as a diagnostic procedure.  However, if you have no symptoms it may not be necessary.  It is possible to have endometriosis with no symptoms, and in this case, having the surgery and removing any adhesions can improve fertility.  I myself have endometriosis and was able to quickly get pregnant following the surgery.  Given your age, it might make more sense to move on to treatment with IUI or IVF if you have no success after 6 months of trying.  Depending on the state you live in and your insurance, it might not be covered until after a year of trying however.  I hope this helps.
Sarah