What Is Hysteroscopy?

This procedure can help diagnose or treat problems involving the uterus.

Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to look inside a woman's uterus.

It can be used to diagnose or treat certain health problems.

The procedure is commonly performed to find the cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding or repeated miscarriages.

It can also help diagnose uterine or cervical cancers.

In addition, hysteroscopy is used to:

• Perform sterilization procedures
• Locate or take out an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Remove adhesions (scar tissue that can form because of previous surgeries or infections)
• Conduct a biopsy (take a small tissue sample)
• Perform ablation therapy (a procedure that uses heat, cold, or electricity to destroy the lining of the uterus)
• Take out fibroids or polyps (growths in the uterus)

The Hysteroscopy Procedure

A hysteroscopy is typically performed in a doctor's office or hospital setting.

You may be given local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or medicines to help you relax.

Your doctor will first insert a speculum (instrument to open up the vagina) into your vagina.

A hysteroscope (thin, lighted telescope-like device) will then be inserted through your cervix and into your uterus.

Your doctor may then place a gas or fluid in your uterus to expand it. This helps make the area more visible.

Your doctor can then view the lining of your uterus and the opening of your fallopian tubes on a video screen.

Small instruments can be inserted through the hysteroscope to remove tissue or perform any necessary procedures.

Before a Hysteroscopy

You may want to schedule your hysteroscopy the week after your menstrual period.

Your doctor may give you medicine to use ahead of time that will open your cervix before your procedure. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Let your doctor know about all medical conditions you have, especially:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease

Also, tell your healthcare provider about any medicines you're taking.

You may need to stop taking drugs such as Plavix (clopidogrel), Coumadin (warfarin), aspirin, Aleve (naproxen), Advil (ibuprofen), and others one to two weeks before your hysteroscopy.

Let your doctor know if you have a cold, fever, the flu, or a herpes outbreak before having this procedure.

You may be told not to eat or drink anything for 6 to 12 hours before your hysteroscopy.

Ask your doctor if you should take your regular medicines on the day of the procedure.

After a Hysteroscopy

Typically, you can go home the same day as your procedure.

You may experience cramping or light bleeding for a couple of days after the procedure. You may have a watery discharge for several weeks.

Talk to your doctor about what pain medicines you should take during this time.

Don't have sex until your healthcare provider tells you it's okay.

You can usually return to your normal activities within a day or two.

Call your doctor right away if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, chills, or severe abdominal pain.

Risks of Hysteroscopy

Potential risks of a hysteroscopy include:

• Injury to the cervix, uterus, bowel, or bladder
• Heavy bleeding
• Intrauterine scarring
• Infection
• Bad reaction to anesthesia