Hysteroscopy
Definition
This procedure uses a scope to let the doctor to see inside the
uterus.
Reasons for Procedure
Hysteroscopy may be done to look for causes of:
Hysteroscopy may also be done as part of treatment. It may be used to remove:
Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor
will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Swelling or bleeding
- Problems from anesthesia
- Infection
- Harm to nearby structures
Things that may raise the risk of problems are:
-
Smoking
- Drinking ecess alcohol
- Long term diseases such as diabetes or obesity
-
History of
pelvic inflammatory disease
- Inflammation of the cervix
- Distended bladder
- Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The care team may meet with you to talk about:
- Anesthesia options
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to
stop taking them before the procedure
- Fasting before the procedure, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the
night before
- Whether you need a ride to and from the procedure
Anesthesia
The doctor may give:
-
General anesthesia—you will be
asleep
- Regional anesthesia—pain will be blocked without causing sleep
- Local anesthesia—the area will be numbed
Description of the Procedure
A speculum is placed in the vagina. It will gently press open
the vagina. A scope will be passed through the vagina and into the uterus. The uterus
will be filled with a gas or liquid. This will let the doctor get a clear look inside
the uterus.
Other tools may be passed into the uterus. Abnormal tissue will be removed or repairs will be made. A sample of tissue may be removed for a biopsy. All samples will be sent to a lab for exam.
How Long Will It Take?
About 15 to 45 minutes
Will It Hurt?
There may be mild cramping and soreness. Medicine can
help.
Post-procedure Care
Once you feel better, you will be able to go home. Most can go back to normal
activity within a few days. Full recovery will depend on what was done.
At Home
Most can go back to normal activity within a few days. Full recovery will depend on
what was done.
Problems to Look Out For
Call your doctor if you are not feeling better or you have:
- Signs of infection, such a fever and chills
- Abnormal bleeding (more than a menstrual period)
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Belly pain
- Nausea, vomiting
- Problems breathing, problems swallowing, or chest pain
- Problems passing urine (pee)
- Any new or worsening symptoms
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right
away.
Resources
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org
Office on Women's Health
http://www.womenshealth.gov
Canadian Resources
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
http://www.sogc.org
Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca
References
Hysteroscopy. American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologist website. Available at: https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Hysteroscopy.
Hysteroscopy. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/procedure/hysteroscopy.
Hysteroscopy. NHS website. Available at:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hysteroscopy/.
Salazar CA, Isaacson KB. Office operative hysteroscopy: an
update. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2018;25(2):199-208.