What Is a Hysteroscopy? All You Need to Know
If one of our OBGYNs in Chapel Hill or Durham has said you need a hysteroscopy, you may have some questions about the procedure.
We will always take time to answer your questions because we are partners in your care. For your convenience, we’ve compiled this list of some of the most frequently asked questions we receive—including “what is a hysteroscopy?”
And, as always, if you have a question that was not addressed below, please contact us. We’ll be glad to answer your additional questions.
What Is a Hysteroscopy?
Sometimes, we need to look inside your uterus in order to create the right treatment plan. We typically perform a hysteroscopy to diagnose abnormal bleeding. During the procedure, we use a hysteroscope. This is a thin, lighted tube that is inserted into your vagina that enables us to examine both your cervix and the inside of your uterus.
There are different reasons why a hysteroscopy may be needed, but primarily, it’s used to diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding. This may include irregular spotting between periods or bleeding after menopause.
A hysteroscopy can also be used to find fibroids or endometrial polyps. It’s also helpful in determining if there are any structural problems with your uterus. Through a hysteroscopy, we can also discover if there is any scar tissue forming in your uterus.
In certain cases, a hysteroscopy can be used to:
- Remove placental issue after you’ve had your baby
- Find an IUD
- Help discover why you may have had several miscarriages
- Discover the reason behind fertility problems
Is a Hysteroscopy a Major Surgery?
There are two types of hysteroscopies: diagnostic and operative. A diagnostic is used to discover the underlying issue, while an operative one may be used to treat it.
For example, you may need a diagnostic hysteroscopy to find a fibroid, but use an operative one to remove it.
In either case, a hysteroscopy is NOT considered major surgery. It is considered a minor operation because it doesn’t require a stay in a hospital. In fact, we can perform a hysteroscopy in our office.
At Chapel Hill OBGYN, We Use the MyoSure Device
We use the MyoSure specialized tissue-removing device to remove a polyp or fibroid if one is discovered.
How Painful is a Hysteroscopy?
We understand that every patient has a unique experience, and some may experience discomfort while others do not. We typically use anesthesia or a sedative to help you relax. This means you should be able to have the procedure without pain.
We’re able to do this because we have access to a board-certified anesthesiologist who provides services at our office—so you don’t have to go to a hospital to get the procedure done.
If you’re still wondering what a hysteroscopy is and have questions, we encourage you to contact us. We’re happy to answer any that you have—and we promise to take time to do so. You’ll never feel rushed. We are partners in your care.
What Do They Do During a Hysteroscopy?
When you have your procedure, we’ll first ask you to empty your bladder before putting on a hospital gown. Then you’ll meet with the anesthesiologist, who will administer either anesthesia or a sedative.
The hysteroscopy begins a lot like a pelvic exam. In fact, we’ll perform a brief pelvic exam before the procedure. We’ll then dilate your cervix. This enables us to gently insert the hysteroscope into your vagina and into your uterus.
We’ll often send liquid into your uterus to be sure it is cleared of mucus to enable us to examine it better. Then we’ll use the light at the end of the tube to inspect the area. If you have fibroids or something that needs to be removed, we will do it at that time.
Tips on How to Prepare
Would you like more information on how to prepare—and recover—from your hysteroscopy? We have explored the answers in detail in our earlier blog: “Before & After: How To Prepare for Your Hysteroscopy“.
A Hysteroscopy Is Just One of Our In-Office Procedures at CHOBGYN
We offer a variety of in-office procedures. Not only are in-office procedures more economical, but they’re more convenient, meaning you don’t have to spend time in a hospital.
Some of the procedures we offer in addition to a hysteroscopy include:
- Endometrial ablation
- LEEP procedures
- D & C treatment for early pregnancy loss
- Placement or removal of IUDs (in special cases)
At CHOBGYN, We Are Partners in Your Healthcare
When you’ve been a dedicated member of the community for more than 50 years, you understand the importance of relationships. That’s one reason why we’ve been consistently ranked the best OBGYN practice in Durham and Orange counties.
If you’re having irregular bleeding, or even if you’re just due for an annual exam, we’d consider it a privilege to care for you. Just contact us to schedule an appointment.
For more than 50 years, Chapel Hill OBGYN has served women in the Triangle area, sharing the joy of little miracles and supporting them during challenges. Our board-certified physicians and certified nurse midwives bring together the personal experience and convenience of a private practice with the state-of-the-art resources found at larger organizations. To schedule an appointment, please use our online form or call 919-942-8571.