Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a technique used to look inside the uterus. A hysteroscope is a thin, telescope-like device that is placed into the uterus through the vagina and cervix. It may help a doctor diagnose or treat a uterine problem. One of the most common uses for hysteroscopy is to find the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding. Other situations that hysteroscopy could be useful are: removing adhesions from the uterine cavity, diagnosis the causes of repeated miscarriage, removing a missed IUD, performing sterilization or removing a fibroid or polyp. You should not have hysteroscopy if you are pregnant, have a vaginal or urinary tract infection, or if you have known cancer of the uterus. Your doctor can see the lining of your uterus and the openings of the fallopian tubes by looking through the hysteroscope. If a biopsy or other procedure is done, your doctor will use small tools through the hysteroscope, such as small scissors or a wire loop. You should be able to go home shortly after the procedure. If you were given general anesthesia, you may need to wait until its effects have worn off. Hysteroscopy is a very safe procedure. However, there is a small risk of problems. The uterus or cervix can be punctured by the hysteroscope, bleeding may occur, or excess fluid may build up in your system.