Understanding hysteroscopy

If you occasionally experience heavy periods and cramping, your doctor may recommend a hysteroscopy. To find out what it entails, when it is carried out and the recovery period, here is a guideline on hysteroscopy.

Overview of hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy refers to a procedure used to examine the inside of the uterus using a hysteroscope. Your doctor inserts the hysteroscope through the cervix, meaning no cuts are required. The hysteroscope then sends back images to your doctor, allowing for proper intrauterine examination.

When is a hysteroscopy carried out?

A hysteroscopy can be carried out for diagnostic purposes. Here, your doctor uses a hysteroscope to observe and diagnose issues such as polyps and fibroids.

The second reason that may call for a hysteroscopy is for investigative purposes. This often entails an in-depth understanding of problems related to heavy bleeding, longer periods and unusual bleeding between your periods. If you also experience postmenopausal bleeding, have difficulty getting pregnant or occasionally get pelvic pain, a hysteroscopy will be required. Frequent miscarriages can also call for a hysteroscopy.

Lastly is for treatment purposes. This means that if you have previously been diagnosed with fibroids or polyps, a hysteroscopy will be necessary. Additionally, scarring on your uterus and displaced intrauterine devices are other reasons that can result in a hysteroscopy. If you are also interested in sterilisation procedures for birth control, your doctor may suggest a hysteroscopy.

How long does a hysteroscopy last?

A hysteroscopy is a one-day procedure, with most examinations requiring only a few minutes. The duration, however, depends on the reason for your visit. Hysteroscopy can be done while the patient is awake or in some cases, through the use of a local anaesthetic.

Recovering from a hysteroscopy

You may experience minor bleeding and discharge after your hysteroscopy, which can last for a few days. Cramping that resembles period pain is also common and should not be a reason for concern.

If you are looking for hysteroscopy services or a private gynaecologist London specialist, Ian Chilcott is your best bet. We also offer services in laparoscopic hysterectomy and pregnancy care. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment with the best private obstetrician London-wide.