Introduction
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Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a gynaecologist to see the inside of the uterus (womb). Hysteroscopy procedure may be used for either diagnosis or treatment. A diagnostic Hysteroscopy takes only a few minutes and can sometimes be performed in the Outpatients Department while you are awake.
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A Hysteroscopy for the treatment of a certain medical condition is usually performed under a general anaesthetic in the Day Surgery Unit.
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The hysteroscope, which is similar to a narrow telescope, is inserted through the opening (cervix) into the uterine cavity. Sometimes the cervix may need to be grasped to steady the uterus and a local anaesthetic may be used. Carbon dioxide gas or liquid is introduced to separate the walls of the uterus to make space so that the inside of the uterus to be seen. At the end of the procedure a sample of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) may be taken and sent for pathology examination.
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Some reasons for a hysteroscopy
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For diagnosis
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- To investigate infertility
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- To investigate heavy or irregular periods
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- To investigate bleeding after menopause
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- To investigate recurrent miscarriage
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- To find intra uterine device's
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For Treatment
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- To remove or cauterise the lining the womb in a procedure called an endometrial ablation
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- To remove fibroids or polyps
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- To remove difficult intra uterine devices
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- To cut intra uterine adhesions
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Complications
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No surgery is without risk, but the risks associated with this surgery are very small. The risk is greater for women who smoke or who are significantly overweight.
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Some complications that may occur are:
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- perforation of the uterine wall
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Recovery
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Following the procedure some symptoms may be experienced including:
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- cramps similar to period pains
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- nausea, fatigue or muscle pain
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After discharge
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Discharge from Hospital is usually on the same day. If you are unwell, an overnight stay in Hospital may be arranged.
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Once bleeding has stopped and you feel better you may commence your usual physical and sexual activity.
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An appointment to attend the Gynaecology Outpatients Clinic will be arranged for you so that you can discuss the results of any tests such as the pathology report.
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If you need urgent attention after discharge you should contact your local doctor or the Emergency Department of the Royal Women's Hospital on (03) 8345 3636.
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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 This fact sheet is also available in: Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Greek, Italian, Serbian, Somali, Turkish, Vietnamese.
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