Hysteroscopy

What is a hysteroscopy?

This procedure involves the examination of the uterus using a slender, flexible tube equipped with a camera at its tip, known as a hysteroscope. It serves as a valuable tool for investigating a range of concerns such as heavy menstrual periods and pelvic discomfort, as well as diagnosing conditions and addressing issues like fibroids.

As a minimally invasive procedure, hysteroscopy is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you should be able to go home once it’s complete without having to worry about scar tissue or a complex recovery.

Benefits of hysteroscopy

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain or discomfort, undergoing a hysteroscopy can offer several benefits. A hysteroscopy can:

• Identify the causes of infertility, heavy bleeding, and recurrent miscarriages

• Effectively treat conditions such as polyps, fibroids, and adhesions

• Assist in the removal of displaced intrauterine devices

• By addressing and resolving specific issues, a hysteroscopy could increase your chances of conception and help alleviate discomfort.

After effects of a hysteroscopy

While hysteroscopy is generally regarded as safe, as with all medical procedures, certain risks and potential side effects are possible, including:

• The possibility of uterine or cervical damage

• Occasional bleeding during or after the procedure

• The risk of a uterine infection

• Transient feelings of light-headedness

• It's important to note that a hysteroscopy involves the administration of either general or local anaesthesia, each carrying its own set of potential risks and side effects

What happens during a hysteroscopy?

Depending on individual circumstances, you’ll be given either general or local anaesthesia. When general anaesthesia is administered, you’ll remain asleep throughout the procedure, whereas local anaesthetic reduces pain and pressure felt.

The procedure typically lasts around 30 minutes.

To begin, a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina, followed by the application of an antiseptic solution. Next, the hysteroscope is introduced through the cervix into the womb.

To help your physician get a clearer visual, a gentle flow of fluid is directed into the womb. The camera attached to the hysteroscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to identify any abnormalities.

If necessary, a small sample of the uterine lining, known as an endometrial biopsy, may be collected for further analysis.

Is hysteroscopy suitable for me?

Hysteroscopy can be used as a tool for the diagnosis and treatment of numerous pelvic conditions, including:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Abnormal uterine bleeding

• Pelvic pain

• Difficulty conceiving

• Fibroids and polyps

• Recurrent miscarriages

• Abnormal growths

We remain committed to keeping you informed about the reasons behind your recommended procedure. In instances where an endometrial biopsy is required, we’ll give you precise information regarding the expected timeline for your results.

Hysteroscopy recovery

You’ll typically be able to return home on the same day as your hysteroscopy. While some grogginess may be experienced if general anaesthesia is administered, it's rare you'll stay in the hospital overnight.

Mild discomfort and cramping, similar to menstrual pains, might be experienced in the first few days. It's common to experience bleeding or spotting for up to a week following the procedure, in which case you should use sanitary pads instead of tampons to mitigate infection risk.

In most cases, you should be able to resume work and your regular activities within a few days, depending on the specific nature of the hysteroscopy. To reduce the likelihood of infection, it's recommended to avoid sexual activity for at least one week following the procedure.

If you do start to experience worrying symptoms, like abnormal bleeding, don't hesitate to contact your local MYA clinic for further information and advice.