Hysteroscopy

How does a hysteroscopy work?

Exploratory hysteroscopy procedures are usually performed as day cases, which means you can return home on the day of surgery, the procedure can also be used to perform certain forms of surgery on the womb, general anaesthesia is required for hysteroscopy procedures.

Hysteroscopy procedures involve the use of a small video camera to examine the uterus and uterine lining. The telescope goes through the cervix and into the uterus in order to view the uterine cavity. It lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on what is required.

Some women experience a small amount of cramping after a hysteroscopy, but this does not last longer than a few days and most women can return to normal activities the next day.

Why is it done?

A hysteroscopy may be done to see if a problem in the uterus is preventing from becoming pregnant (infertility). The doctor may take a small sample of tissue (biopsy). The sample will be sent to the lab for further investigations.

A hysteroscopy can assist us in identifying that problem and we can establish an individualised treatment plan that could help you to realise your dream of becoming a parent. In some cases, the hysteroscopy itself can actually be used to remove the problem. Hysteroscopy procedures are generally performed alongside semen analysis for the male partner, so we can establish where the fertility problem lies. Sometimes both partners have fertility issues and often neither partner has an identifiable problem.

Hysteroscopy is performed to:

• See whether a problem in the shape or size of the uterus or if scar tissue in the uterus is the cause of infertility.
• Find and remove small fibroids or polyps.
• Look at the uterine openings to the fallopian tubes. If the tubes are blocked, the doctor may be able to open the tubes with special tools passed through the hysteroscope.
• Find the cause of severe cramping or abnormal bleeding. The doctor can pass heated tools through the hysteroscope to stop the bleeding
• Find the possible cause of repeated miscarriages. Other tests may also be done.
• Use heated tools to remove problem areas in the lining of the uterus (endometrial ablation).
• Check for endometrial hyperplasia
• Find and reposition a misplaced intrauterine device (IUD).

Whatever the diagnosis, we will assist you through the whole process, offering not just state-of-the-art technology and the latest treatment options, but also empathy, reassurance and support.