A hysteroscopy is a surgical process used to examine the uterine cavity for irregularities. Uterine adhesions, septa, fibroids and cysts, congenital abnormalities and endometrial polyps can be detected and treated using this procedure. If the hysteroscopy is carried out only for diagnosis, it is called diagnostic hysteroscopy. This is ideal for women suffering from pelvic or uterine pain, unexplained infertility, abnormal or irregular bleeding and repeated miscarriage. When an operation is performed to treat the uterine problems, it is called operational hysteroscopy. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia to minimise discomfort.
Hysteroscopy is usually done during the first week after your period and may be done on an empty stomach. The process lasts for about half an hour. During diagnostic hysteroscopy, a special solution is used to clean the vagina and cervix. After this is done, a liquid or gas such as carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide is used to enlarge the cervix and the uterus. This is called cervical dilation. A small telescope called a hysteroscope is inserted into the uterus. A light attached to the hysteroscope helps your doctor in examining the internal parts of the uterus. If an operational hysteroscopy is carried out, surgical instruments are placed into the uterine cavity through a channel in the operative hysteroscope.
Hysteroscopy also confirms other test results such as hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
Although, complications rarely take place during hysteroscopy, some side effects that may occur are mild vaginal bleeding, uterine infection, perforated uterus, Allergic to the anesthesia, cramps similar to menstrual period.
However, the recovery time is very fast. Contact your doctor immediately if you have fever, severe abdominal pain or heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge after a hysteroscopy.