ObjectiveTo assess the safety, effectiveness and potential benefits of laparoscopic Burch colposuspension.DesignNon‐randomised prospective study.SubjectsFifteen women, presenting consecutively with uro‐dynamically confirmed urinary stress incontinence.ResultsThe operation was successfully completed with no perioperative morbidity in 14 women. One woman subsequently underwent laparotomy after injury to the inferior epigastric artery. The average duration of surgery was 110 minutes, postoperative catheter‐isation 30 hours, and hospital stay 2.3 days. There was little postoperative discomfort. Most women were able to return to normal activities within one to two weeks. At follow‐up (6 weeks‐9 months) all the women were continent.ConclusionLaparoscopic Burch colposuspension is a safe and feasible alternative to the open technique. Early results show the benefits of easy access to the cave of Retzius, a clear view of the operating field, minimal intraoperative blood loss, shortened postoperative catheterisation and hospitalisation times, little postoperative pain and early return to normal lifestyle.