A hysteroscopy is an examination of the inside of your womb (uterus) using a telescope called a hysteroscope. This may be either a flexible instrument about the thickness of a pencil or a rigid version that is thinner still (3mm in diameter). In both cases, the hysteroscope is carefully passed through the vagina and cervix, and into the womb.
A hysteroscopy is useful for finding out what is causing your symptoms, or as a check-up for certain gynaecological conditions.
During the procedure the doctor may take a biopsy - a small sample of tissue - for examination in the laboratory. It is also possible to remove polyps, small lumps of tissue that can grow from the womb lining.
It is most often performed as a day case, with no overnight stay. A hysteroscopy can be performed under a local anaesthetic, with an injection into the cervix, especially if no treatment is planned (a diagnostic hysterscopy). In other cases, you will have a general anaesthetic. This means you will be asleep throughout the procedure.
Hysteroscopy procedure
Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, the hysteroscope is gently passed through the cervix and into the womb itself. The scope is then attached to a camera, allowing the surgeon to see a clear image on a video screen. The walls of the uterus are separated with gas or fluid to make them easier to view.
Risks of hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is generally a safe procedure. For most people, the benefits in terms of having a clear diagnosis, or quick and effective treatment, are much greater than any disadvantages. However, all invasive medical procedures do carry some element of risk. This can be divided into the risk of side-effects and the risk of complications.
Side-effects
These are the unwanted, but mostly temporary, effects of a successful procedure. Examples of short-lived side-effects include feeling sick as a result of the general anaesthetic. You may also have some slight abdominal pain, similar to period pain, and there may be some vaginal bleeding for several days. Occasionally, bleeding and discharge continue for up to a month.
Complications
These are rarer than most side-effects and most women will not experience problems. The main possible complications of any invasive procedure are bleeding (during or soon after the procedure), infection, and an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic.
Other complications are uncommon, but it is possible for the womb to be damaged or perforated during the procedure. This can lead to bleeding and infection, which may require treatment with medicines or surgery or, in an extreme case, a hysterectomy (removal of the womb).
The chance of complications depends on the exact type of procedure you are having and other factors such as your general health. You should ask your specialist to explain how these risks apply to you.
Preparation for hysteroscopy
If your operation has been planned as a day case, you will be able to go home once you have made a full recovery from the anaesthetic. However, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home and then stay with you for the first 24 hours.
If the procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic, you will need to rest on your bed until the effects of the anaesthetic have passed. When you feel ready, you can begin to drink and eat, starting with clear fluids such as water or apple juice. Before you go home, the specialist may explain the findings of the hysteroscopy, or will ask that you make an appointment to do this. If a biopsy has been done, it may be several days before the results are available.
If you have any abdominal pain, you may require painkillers. Please discuss pain relief with your nurse, specialist or anaesthetist.
Most women experience no problems following a hysteroscopy. But, if you do develop any of the following symptoms, which may indicate an infection or other complication, contact the doctor or hospital immediately:
- prolonged heavy bleeding
- pain that persists for more than 48 hours
- severe pain
- a swollen belly
- raised temperature
- vaginal discharge that is dark or smelly
You may find that your first period following the procedure is heavier or more prolonged than usual and that your periods are irregular for a couple of months.
To help avoid the risk of pelvic infection, you should not use tampons for at least one month after your hysteroscopy. Sexual intercourse may be resumed as soon as you feel ready, and you should continue to use your usual form of contraception unless your specialist gives you different advice.
Disclaimer
This information was published by Bupa Group's Health Content Team and has been reviewed by appropriate medical or clinical professionals. To the best of their knowledge the information is current and based on reputable sources of medical evidence, however Bupa (Asia) Limited makes no representation or warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of the Content.
The information on this page, and any information on third party websites referred to on this page, is provided as a guide only. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Bupa (Asia) Limited is not liable for any loss or damage you suffer arising out of the use of, or reliance on, the information.
Third party websites are not owned or controlled by Bupa and any individual may be able to access and post messages on them. Bupa is not responsible for the content or availability of these third party websites. Last updated August 2017.
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