Hysteroscopy involves using a thin, lighted tube(telescope) called a hysteroscope that is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. This allows the doctor to directly visualize the uterine cavity. It can be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used by gynecologists to examine and treat conditions affecting the uterus. It provides a detailed view of the uterine cavity, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment of various gynecological and fertility issues.

1. Diagnostic Hysteroscopy: Used to investigate symptoms such as abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, or repeated miscarriages. It helps identify conditions like polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or septa.
2. Operative Hysteroscopy: Performed to treat conditions identified during a diagnostic hysteroscopy or imaging studies. Instruments can be inserted through the hysteroscope to remove polyps, fibroids, or .adhesions or to correct uterine abnormalities.

Hysteroscopy is used for:

• Investigating causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.
• Diagnosing and treating certain infertility issues.
• Removing uterine polyps and fibroids.
• Treating intrauterine adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome).
• Correcting congenital uterine abnormalities (e.g., uterine septum).
• Removing retained intrauterine devices (IUDs).
• Examining and removing retained products of conception post-miscarriage or delivery.

Your doctor may recommend a hysteroscopy if you experience:

• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Bleeding after menopause.
• Recurrent miscarriages.
• Difficulty in conceiving (infertility).
• Suspected uterine abnormalities.
• Scanty menstrual bleeding

Before the Procedure

• Consultation: Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam.
• Pre-operative checkup- A few blood tests, USG, chest x-ray, ECG, etc done along with pre anaesthetic examination.
• Preparation: You may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication: A sedative or pain reliever may be given pre & post the procedure. In some cases, a cervical softening medication is prescribed.

During the Procedure

• The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting or hospital.
• A speculum is inserted into the vagina, allowing access to the cervix.
• The hysteroscope is gently introduced into the uterus. Saline or carbon dioxide gas may be used to expand the uterine cavity for better visualization.
• Depending on the purpose, your doctor may take tissue samples, remove abnormalities, or treat specific conditions.

After the Procedure

• Mild cramping or spotting is normal for a day or two.
• Rest for a few hours before resuming light activities.
• Avoid sexual intercourse and tampons for a few days or as advised.
• Follow-up consultation is essential to discuss findings and plan for further treatment if required.

• Minimally invasive procedure with no abdominal incisions.
• Quick recovery time.
• High diagnostic accuracy.
• Simultaneous diagnosis and treatment.
• Enhanced fertility outcomes in cases of uterine abnormalities.

• Hysteroscopy is generally very safe. Complications are rare but may include:

  • Infection.
  • Uterine perforation (rare).
  • Excessive bleeding.
  • Adverse reactions to anesthesia.

  Prompt reporting of unusual symptoms like severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever ensures timely management of any complications.

Most patients recover within 1-2 days for diagnostic hysteroscopy and a few days to a week for operative hysteroscopy. Recovery time depends on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing capacity.

The level of discomfort varies:

• Diagnostic hysteroscopy: Usually mild discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps.
• Operative hysteroscopy: Discomfort may be slightly higher and can be managed with pain relievers. But anaesthesia is often used for these procedures so the patient doesn’t get any pain.

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• Abnormal or heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Intermenstrual bleeding.
• Scanty bleeding. 
• Difficulty in conceiving or repeated miscarriages.
• Suspected uterine abnormalities based on imaging studies.