Hysteroscopy

What is a Hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a procedure that uses a hysteroscope, a thin, lighted, flexible, telescope-like device that is inserted through your vagina to examine your cervix and uterus. The procedure is done to diagnose and treat reproductive problems. If problems are found, your doctor will insert surgical instruments through the hysteroscope to perform treatment.

Why is a Hysteroscopy Used?

Your provider at Capital Women’s Care may perform a hysteroscopy to diagnose reproductive problems or treat gynecological conditions. During a hysteroscopy, your physician may:

• Identify the cause of heavy or abnormal bleeding
• Take a tissue sample of your cervix or uterus
• Remove fibroid tumors or polyps
• Destroy abnormal uterine tissue
• Diagnose the cause of repeated miscarriages
• Locate an intrauterine device
• Perform surgery, such as sterilization procedures

A hysteroscopy may last from 15 to 60 minutes or more, depending on what’s being done. Your doctor performs this procedure when you don’t have a menstrual period.

What Should I Expect During a Hysteroscopy?

Your doctor may first give you medication to help you relax, local anesthesia to block pain, or general anesthesia to put you to sleep. Your provider may then:

• Dilate your cervix
• Insert a speculum into your vagina
• Insert a hysteroscope into your vagina, cervix, and uterus
• Use fluid or gas to expand your uterus and examine it better

If a biopsy or other medical procedure is needed, your doctor will insert surgical instruments through the hysteroscope to perform treatment.

You can likely head home shortly after your hysteroscopy if you’ve had local anesthesia. If you’ve had general anesthesia, you may have to wait a little longer for it to wear off. You may experience mild cramping or bloody discharge for several days after the procedure. This is normal, but you should call your doctor right away if you experience chills, fever, or heavy bleeding.

While a hysteroscopy may sound a little scary, the nurturing team of specialists at Capital Women’s Care will put you at ease and make you feel comfortable during each visit. If you suffer from pelvic pain or heavy or abnormal bleeding, book an appointment online or over the phone today.

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