Hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose some abnormalities in the uterus, to confirm results of other tests, or to correct some abnormalities. Hysteroscopy is commonly performed to determine the cause of unusually heavy or long periods, bleeding between periods, and postmenopausal bleeding. In certain situations it may be done to evaluate the cause of severe menstrual cramps. Hysteroscopy may sometimes be used to check for some causes of infertility or the inability to carry pregnancies to term. Also, displaced IUD's may be located during the procedure. Uterine adhesions, septums, or fibroids can be removed by utilizing the hysteroscope and special instruments designed for use with the hyteroscope.

Hysteroscopy procedures are typically scheduled during the first week or so after a menstrual period. This allows a better view of the inside of the uterus. Ask your doctor if you can take a medication like ibuprofen an hour before your procedure to help lesson uterine cramps that sometimes occur during hysteroscopy.

During the procedure your doctor may numb your cervix with a local anesthetic. The opening of your cervix may be widened using a special instrument, a speculum. The hysteroscope is then inserted. A liquid or gas is released through the hysteroscope to expand the uterus so that the inside can be seen better. A light is shone through the instrument. Your doctor may look directly through the hysteroscope or at images of your uterus on a video monitor. If surgery is to be done, specially designed surgical instruments will be inserted through the hysteroscope. The doctor may take tiny samples of the uterine lining or remove growths.

After the procedure, you will be able to go home in a relatively short time. You may feel a pain in your shoulders if gas was used during hysteroscopy to inflate the uterus. This discomfort usually dissipates quickly once the gas is absorbed. Menstrual type cramps and bleeding are common for a day or two, so wear an absorbent pad. Avoid tampons or sexual intercourse for a brief time after the procedure. It is recommended you get in contact with your doctor if you have a fever over 100.4^oF, have severe abdominal pain, or have heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge.

If you would like information about this procedure please contact your physician, or fill out our Request Information Form and submit your request for a physician referral. The information contained here-in does not dictate an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed and should not be construed as excluding other acceptable methods of practice. Variations taking into account the needs of the individual patient, resources, and limitations unique to the type of practice may be appropriate.

The treatment methods and parameters discussed in this web site are intended for a reference only and do not serve as a direct recommendation of treatment method or dosimetry.