This thin, telescope-like instrument is inserted into the uterus through the vagina and cervix.
Hysteroscopy is a minor procedure that is performed either in your healthcare providers office or in a hospital setting.
It can be performed with local, regional, or general anesthesiasometimes no anesthesia is needed.
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The risks of these procedures are low for most people.
Uses
Hysteroscopy may be either diagnostic or operative.
A hysteroscopy and laparoscopy may be used together to diagnose and treat conditions associated with infertility.
When Should It Be Performed?
You may need to reschedule the procedure.
You will be asked to empty your bladder and your vaginal area will be cleansed with an antiseptic.
Do ask questions if anything about your procedure or anesthesia is unclear.
The procedure should not cause serious pain, but you may feel cramping or some discomfort.
How Long Does a Hysteroscopy Take?
Depending on what is done during the procedure, a hysteroscopy usually takes between 15 minutes and an hour.
After the Procedure
Patients who received a local anesthetic can usually go home soon after the procedure.
Some patients may experience shoulder pain following laparoscopy or when gas is used to expand the uterus.
Once the gas is absorbed, the discomfort should subside quickly.
You may be ready to return to normal activities the day after your procedure.
Some women report returning to work the same day following a hysteroscopy.
Discuss recovery with your healthcare provider, though.
What Should You Not Do After a Hysteroscopy?
What Are the Risks of a Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a fairly safe procedure.
As with all surgeries, there is a risk of infection or negative effects from the anesthesia.
The scope is inserted through the vagina, so it does not require any surgical incisions.
Since a hysteroscopy is minimally invasive, it often is done as a day surgery.
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