Hysteroscopy is a procedure of looking inside the womb (uterine cavity) with a
thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope that is inserted through the vagina. It
offers an excellent visual access to the inner side of the cervix and uterus and
helps us to diagnose and treat any abnormal conditions within the cervix and
uterine cavity. It is also very valuable in determining and treating certain causes of
infertility.
Treatment types
There are two uses for hysteroscopy:
- Diagnostic— In this, hysteroscope is used to look at the interior of the
cervix and the uterine cavity to diagnose the causes of infertility, abnormal
PAP test, abnormal uterine bleeding, post-menopausal bleeding, recurrent
miscarriages, displaced intrauterine devices (IUDs). This can be performed
as a day-care procedure with or without anesthesia.
- Therapeutic— In this, hysteroscopy is used to treat uterine and cervical
problems like uterine septum, polyps, fibroids, intrauterine adhesions.
Visually directed endometrial biopsy can be taken in cases of abnormal
bleeding. Endometrial ablation can be performed.
Risks
Risks and side effects of hysteroscopy could include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Tearing of uterus or damage to the cervix (rarely)
- Slight vaginal bleeding
- Cramps after procedure
- Watery discharge
How to prepare
Before your procedure, gather as much information as you can. Talk to
professionals to clear your queries. Stay relaxed. Have your partner or relative
accompany you to the procedure.
What to expect after treatment
After a hysteroscopy, you can expect light bleeding, potential discharge and
cramping. You will be kept under observation for a few hours before sending
home.
Contact the doctor if you have any of the following:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe pain that gets worsened
- Fever
DIAGNOSTIC HYSTEROSCOPY:
Diagnostic hysteroscopy helps to visualise the interior of cervix and uterine cavity. It is
helpful in diagnosing the causes of infertility, abnormal uterine bleeding, recurrent
miscarriages, post-menopausal bleeding.
HYSTEROSCOPIC POLYPECTOMY:
Polyps are usually benign out-growths arising from the cervix or uterine cavity.
Sometimes, they may cause heavy bleeding, pain and infertility. Hysteroscopy is useful
for identifying and removing such polyps.
HYSTEROSCOPIC SEPTAL RESECTION:
Uterine septum is a common cause of infertility and recurrent miscarriages. It is a
congenital malformation in which a fibrous septum of variable thickness and length is
seen within the womb. Hysteroscopy helps in diagnosing and treating the septum in the
same procedure. A scissors or electrocoagulation device is used to cut the septum and
to restore the normal uterine cavity
HYSTEROSCOPIC MYOMECTOMY:
Fibroids or myomas are benign growths arising from the uterine wall. Fibroids projecting
into the uterine cavity and causing heavy menstrual bleeding, pain in the abdomen,
infertility or recurrent miscarriages can be treated by hysteroscopic resection.
HYSTEROSCOPIC ADHESIOLYSIS:
Repeated uterine curettages or infections can sometimes lead to damage to the inner
lining od uterus(endometrium) and cause intra-uterine adhesions. The woman may have
reduced menstrual bleeding, absence of regular menses, difficulty conceiving or
sometimes, miscarriages. These intra-uterine adhesions are best diagnosed and treated
by hysteroscopy. But, this pathology is notorious for recurrence in short durati
