A hysteroscope is an endoscope or a small thin telescope-like instrument which is inserted through the vagina to examine the cervix, or through the cervix to examine the inside of the uterus. Once the hysteroscope is inserted, it is lighted to allow a doctor to visually examine the uterus. A hysteroscope is similar to, but smaller than, a laparoscope. The use of a hysteroscope is called hysteroscopy, and it can be used for diagnostic purposes, for example of conditions like fibroids and infertility; or for operative purposes, in conjunction with a laser or a resectoscope, which introduces an electric current to burn away fibroids or other foreign bodies.