Hysteroscopy is a medical procedure which allows visualisation of the inside of the uterus. It is performed by inserting a very small tube camera (commonly known as a visualising scope) into the vagina and then through the cervical opening. Once inside, it allows doctors to see the inside of the uterus, the openings to the Fallopian tubes, as well as being able to view the cervix, cervical canal and parts of the vagina.
When are hysteroscopies performed?
Generally speaking, hysteroscopies are done for diagnostic reasons. By allowing your doctor to gain visual information about your uterus and the surrounding areas, they are able to either confirm or eliminate the possibilities of a number of different problems. As such, hysteroscopies are used in the evaluation of several common gynaecological problems including:
Abnormal bleeding
Heavy periods
Pelvic pain
Polyps
Retained products of conception
In addition, hysteroscopies can also be used to locate the exact area of abnormalities within the lining of the uterus that are needed for sampling and biopsy.
What does the procedure involve?
As hysteroscopies are a minimally invasive procedure, they can be performed in physician’s offices and outpatient centres, as well as in traditional hospital operating rooms. The exact method of the procedure will depend upon the reasons it is being done, with a vaginal speculum usually being inserted first in order to allow easy access for the visualising scope. Depending upon the size of the scope, and the medical history of the patient, anaesthesia may be used, often a local anaesthesia applied topically or through an injection. The procedure itself is relatively quick, especially if your doctor is looking for something specific. If the hysteroscopy is being done to rule out a number of potential causes, it may take a little longer.
Are there any risks?
As with all medical procedures, nothing is 100% guaranteed risk-free; however, complications due to hysteroscopes are extremely rare. Occasionally patients may experience cramping or light bleeding afterwards, but this will soon clear up. Hysteroscopies are an extremely useful procedure for diagnosing potential problems, and by allowing your doctor to gather as much information as possible, they will be able to make the best possible decision for your future health and wellbeing.
If you are looking for a female gynaecologist in London, or have been told that you need a hysteroscopy and want it to be performed by one of the best doctors in the industry then please get in touch with Dr Tania Adib today.