In-Office Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a procedure used to view the inside of the uterus by inserting a lighted hysteroscope attached to a camera into the uterine cavity, and helps doctors to check for abnormalities and problems in the reproductive tract.

Why is it done?

Hysteroscopy is often helpful in diagnosing or checking for a variety of abnormalities or disorders of the uterus, such as thickening of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, cancerous or non-cancerous tumors, polyps, or other growths, and problems of infertility. This technique can also be an aid during other procedures, allowing doctors to see the inside of the uterus while performing procedures such as endometrial ablation (removal of the uterine lining), tubal sterilization, removing fibroids, or making other surgical corrections inside the uterus without the use of open abdominal surgery.

How is it done?

To perform the procedure, a doctor inserts a very thin tube with a lens like a telescope lens into the uterus through the cervix. Often, the cervix is numbed before insertion to prevent any possible discomfort. Then, the uterus, which is normally collapsed except in pregnancy, is filled with a sterile saline solution, which expands the uterus so that the uterine walls can be seen clearly and completely. After this is done, the hysteroscope is used to thoroughly view the inside of the uterus. The doctor may take a uterine tissue biopsy and may remove small uterine polyps. After the doctor is done viewing the inside of the uterus and taking any necessary samples, he/she then allows the saline solution to drain from the uterus.

In-office hysteroscopy is very tolerated and women are back to their normal schedule immediately.