Hysteroscopy is used to diagnose or treat problems in the uterus. This procedure is performed by a doctor with an instrument called a hysteroscope, which is a thin lighted tube that acts as a sort of telescope. It is inserted through the vagina into the uterus. The scope transmits images from inside the body to a screen. Depending on why the procedure is being performed, other instruments may be used along with the hysteroscope.
Why Hysteroscopy is Done
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the most common reason for a hysteroscopy to be done is to diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding includes unusually heavy or long menstrual periods or bleeding between menstrual periods.
Other reasons a hysteroscopy may be performed:
- Removing non-cancerous fibroids or polyps
- Diagnosing the cause of repeated miscarriage
- Removing adhesions that are the result of an infection or previous surgery
- Finding the location of an intrauterine device (IUD)
What to Expect
At Raleigh OB/GYN Centre, hysteroscopies are performed in-office (change this if needed) by our physicians. The procedure is scheduled for a day that you are not having your menstrual period.
Before the Procedure
Before the procedure, you may be given medication to help you relax. In some cases, general or local anesthetic may be used to block any potential pain or discomfort. The physician may also use medication to dilate the cervix to help with the procedure.
First, a speculum is inserted into the vagina. If you’ve had Pap tests in the past, then you’ll be familiar with the insertion of a speculum. The hysteroscope is inserted through the speculum and is gently moved through the cervix and into the uterus. A fluid such as saline will be put through the hysteroscope. Sometimes carbon dioxide gas is used instead of fluid. (can edit based on what your office uses) The purpose of the fluid or gas is to expand the uterus so the doctor can see the uterine lining more clearly.
Your physician will examine the uterus with the images provided by the scope. If a biopsy or removal is required, small instruments will be passed through the hysteroscope to complete the procedure.
You will be able to go home the same day as you have the procedure. Usually, you can go home pretty quickly after the hysteroscopy. However, if you had general anesthesia, you’ll need to wait a little longer until it has worn off.
You may experience mild cramping or blood discharge in the days following the procedure. Your provider may prescribe medication to help with discomfort. If you have heavy bleeding, fever, or chills after a hysteroscopy, call your provider immediately.
Contact Raleigh OB/GYN Centre
The physicians, nurses, and medical staff at Raleigh OB/GYN offer a comprehensive list of gynecological and obstetric services to the women of the Raleigh, NC area. If you have questions or concerns about a health issue that can be diagnosed or treated with a hysteroscopy, call our office at (919) 876-8225 to make an appointment.