Step 1: PID involves the uterus, tubes and surrounding pelvic structures. Since symptoms and signs overlap with many conditions, a direct-look test gives the most certain diagnosis.
Step 2: By inserting a laparoscope, the surgeon can actually see inflamed, reddened and swollen fallopian tubes with purulent material, and can take samples for culture. This direct confirmation is why it is the reference investigation.
Step 3: Colposcopy is aimed at cervical pathology and hysteroscopy at the endometrial cavity, neither of which reliably reveals tubal disease.
Step 4: Ultrasound helps detect collections like an abscess but cannot definitively diagnose early PID. Hence laparoscopy stands out.
\[\boxed{\text{Laparoscopy}}\]