Hysteroscopy

What is a hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that allows your physician to examine the inside of your uterus with a special scope. A hysteroscope is a thin tube with a light and a camera on its tip that sends images from inside your womb to a monitor in the treatment room. The treatment is safe and an effective diagnostic tool to help ensure you get the treatment you need.

Why would I need a hysteroscopy?

Abnormal bleeding is the most common reason that Artemis OB/GYN orders hysteroscopy. The procedure can reveal uterine fibroids, polyps, and other abnormalities that can cause heavy, painful periods or bleeding between periods or after sex. They also use hysteroscopy to diagnose the cause of miscarriages. 

Depending on your condition, your doctor can perform some surgical procedures during hysteroscopy, such as removing:

• Scar tissue
• Fibroids
• Polyps

They also use hysteroscopy during an endometrial ablation procedure.

What happens during a hysteroscopy?

Your physician can provide an anesthetic to help you stay relaxed during your procedure. During the procedure, you wear a gown and recline on a treatment table with your feet in stirrups, much like when you have your pelvic exam and Pap smear. Your physician places a speculum into your vagina to hold it open while they insert the hysteroscope through your cervix and into your uterus. 

The hysteroscope sends images to a monitor in the treatment room, allowing your physician to examine your uterus. If necessary, they can take a tissue sample for a biopsy or remove scar tissue and other growths during your hysteroscopy. In some cases, your physician needs to schedule an additional procedure but will discuss your next steps with you after your hysteroscopy. 

How should I take care of myself after a hysteroscopy?

You can go home to rest after your hysteroscopy but should be able to resume regular activity within one day. You might have some mild cramping or spotting after your hysteroscopy. Over-the-counter painkillers or a heating pad should reduce any discomfort, and any spotting should stop in a few days. 

If you have abnormal bleeding or other signs of a reproductive health problem, call Artemis OB/GYN or make an appointment for a hysteroscopy online today.