Hysteroscopy- Procedure and What to Expect
Hysteroscopy is a procedure where we insert a thin, slender telescope call hysteroscope through the entrance of the womb called cervix to visualise the canal of the cervix and the cavity of the uterus.
Hysteroscopy can be diagnostic or operative.
Diagnostic hysteroscopy is where we diagnose the problem within the cavity of the uterus by just inserting the camera and visualising the lining of the womb.
Operative Hysteroscopy is when we put in the telescope in the uterus and correct the problem which was detected in the diagnostic hysteroscopy.
Hysteroscopy is required in conditions where-
- A woman has menstrual problems like heavy bleeding during menses, postmenstrual bleeding.
- In conditions where a woman has repeated miscarriages or has difficulty in conceiving or repeated IVF failures.
- If there are growths like polyp or fibroid in the cavity of the uterus, they can be removed with the help of hysteroscopy.
- When the uterus has a partition called the septum which is a defect of the uterus from birth. The septum can also be removed from the uterus.
- In case where due to repeated D&C or infection of the cavity the lining of the uterus gets attached by adhesion which is called Asherman’s Syndrome this can also be diagnosed and treated by hysteroscopy.
Hysteroscopy is a daycare procedure which means there is no need to stay for the night.
It can be performed in local anaesthetic which mild sedation is given.
In case an operative procedure is performed general anaesthesia.
The procedure lasts for around 20 to 30 minutes. In case it is just a diagnostic hysteroscopy, then it takes about 10-15 minutes.
Overnight fasting is required in case of the operative procedure.
Is hysteroscopy painful?
There can be mild pain for some. In some cases, the woman may have severe pain also.
What should you expect Post Hysteroscopy?
Post hysteroscopy the woman can resume daily activities, maybe on the same day or the following day depending on the case.
Some woman may have cramps or pain in the stomach or may experience slight bleeding.
Complications of Hysteroscopy?
Like any other surgery hysteroscopy also has some complications.
- Damage to the uterus -There can be perforation of the uterus or maybe bleeding during the procedure.
- There can be an injury to the cervix while performing hysteroscopy.
- Anaesthetic complications can also be there.
An alternative to Hysteroscopy-
Sonohysterography (SHG)
Here a thin tube or a catheter is inserted in the endometrial cavity, and with the help of ultrasound, the cavity is visualised while instilling water in it to distend the cavity. This helps us diagnose problems like polyp or fibroid or septum in the uterus.
For more information contact- Dr Roshi Satija at 9958722133 or visit www.drroshisatija.com