Hysteroscopy

What is a hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a safe procedure that allows your OB/GYN to see inside your uterus. Hysteroscopy is often recommended to diagnose and treat conditions that cause abnormal uterine bleeding.

During hysteroscopy, a narrow, lighted telescope-like device called a hysteroscope is inserted into your uterus via your vagina. Images captured by the hysteroscope are transmitted onto a screen your OB/GYN can see. If you need treatment, your OB/GYN uses other instruments to treat the cause of abnormal bleeding.

Your OB/GYN may perform a diagnostic hysteroscopy or operative hysteroscopy.

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy

This form of hysteroscopy is used to diagnose a uterine condition or confirm results from other diagnostic tests, such as hysterosalpingography. Hysteroscopy also might be done in tandem with other procedures, such as laparoscopy.

Operative Hysteroscopy

Operative hysteroscopy is performed when a diagnostic hysteroscopy has detected a problem. Treatment usually is done during the same procedure as a diagnosis to avoid extra surgery.

What does hysteroscopy treat?

Your OB/GYN at Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates may recommend hysteroscopy to treat uterine conditions that include:

• Abnormal bleeding: A hysteroscope, along with other instruments, is used to treat heavy or lengthy periods with a procedure called endometrial ablation
• Fibroids and polyps: Hysteroscopy is used to remove benign uterine growths
• Adhesions: Hysteroscopy helps your OB/GYN find and remove bands of scar tissue known as uterine adhesions that affect your period and fertility

What happens during hysteroscopy?

Your procedure may be performed at Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates’ office or a local hospital. Beforehand, you may be given medications to help you relax, prevent pain, or to dilate your cervix.

Your OB/GYN gently inserts the hysteroscope through the cervix into your uterus. Your uterus may be expanded with saline or gas to give your doctor a better view. Then, your OB/GYN passes small instruments through the hysteroscope to complete your treatment.

You typically can go home the same day, although the details of your recovery depend on the condition being treated. To find out if you’re a candidate for hysteroscopy, call today or book a consultation online with Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates.