Have you ever been told that you need a hysteroscopy? You are not alone. Hysteroscopy is a simple procedure that your doctor offers. It helps diagnose and treat issues in your uterus. Some conditions it can treat are unexplained bleeding, fertility concerns, and heavy periods.
Hysteroscopy Treatment at a Glance
Your doctor may spot and address issues during hysteroscopic surgery. Some of them include removing tiny polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue. The process saves you from a second operation. Here are the top benefits:
- Treat issues in one go, avoiding multiple procedures
- Tiny instruments enter via the cervix (so no incisions or much scarring)
- Doctors can remove growths while leaving healthy tissue alone
- Best for removing blockages or scar tissue that hinders conception.
The Hysteroscopy Procedure Outlined in Steps
Here’s what you can expect from the hysteroscopy procedure:
Preparing You for the Treatment
You might stay awake under local or regional anaesthetic or sleep under general anaesthetic. If general anaesthetic is used, you’ll typically fast for 6 to 12 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you’ll receive medications to help you relax.
Cervix Opening
You will first get a speculum inserted to keep the vagina open. That’s followed by dilators or gentle medication to open the cervix so the hysteroscope can pass through.
Inserting the Hysteroscope
Your doctor then gently manoeuvres the hysteroscope through the cervix and into the uterus. A gas or saline solution expands the cavity, offering a clear view of the uterine lining and fallopian tube openings.
Examine Visually
Images from the camera feed onto a monitor. It offers your doctor a real-time view of the inner uterine walls.
The doctor then suggests the right hysteroscopy treatment for polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue when and if necessary.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
Are you wondering how long this treatment takes? A standard hysteroscopy procedure, which involves a simple examination or minor treatment, takes approximately 5 to 30 minutes. On the other hand, complicated cases, which may involve more extensive treatment or the removal of larger growths, may stretch to an hour. Pain levels vary widely: some experience mild cramping, and others feel more discomfort.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Hysteroscopic surgery brings potential aftereffects like any other procedure.
- Spotting or light bleeding for a few days
- Mild pelvic cramps similar to period pain
- Temporary bloating or mild nausea
- If gas was used, some shoulder-tip discomfort due to gas shifting
How to Prepare for Recovery?
Recovery after a hysteroscopy treatment is usually swift, but taking some simple steps helps you recover accordingly:
- Use mild painkillers like ibuprofen if cramps occur
- Avoid tampons, douching, intercourse, baths, hot tubs, or swimming for about two weeks
- Wear breathable sanitary pads until bleeding stops
- Steer clear of strenuous activity for a few days
- Watch for signs of infection (fever or heavy bleeding) and call your doctor if they appear.
When to Consult a Professional?
Even a smooth procedure can bring unwelcome surprises, so it’s vital to know when to pick up the phone:
- Fever or chills appear
- Bleeding soaks through two pads an hour
- Intense pelvic pain unrelieved by painkillers
- Dizziness, nausea that won't lift, or foul-smelling discharge
- Symptoms lasting more than a week
Contact your doctor if you encounter any of these. It might be nothing serious, but it’s better to get reassurance or early treatment rather than risk overdue complications.
A hysteroscopy can offer the real answers. Whether you’re dealing with unexplained bleeding or trying to understand fertility issues, it offers clarity with minimal fuss. If your doctor recommends it, take comfort in knowing it’s a safe and effective way to get the insights you need.
Do not hesitate to ask your specialist how hysteroscopy treatment or hysteroscopic surgery can help you find the right process toward improving your reproductive health.
