Why do I need a hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is a simple procedure used to get a closer look at the inner lining of your uterus. You may need a hysteroscopy if you have abnormal bleeding, which may include:
- Heavy periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after menopause
A hysteroscopy can be both a diagnostic and a treatment solution. For instance, if any fibroids, polyps, or adhesions are found during your procedure, you can usually have them removed on the spot.
What can I expect from a hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is done both in the office and at Raveco Medical’s affiliate hospitals, where you can expect compassionate care from the get-go. After you undress from the waist down, your provider has you get comfortable on the exam table and places your feet in stirrups.
After inserting a speculum into your vagina — just like a Pap smear — your doctor inserts a thin tube with a camera at the end into your vagina, through your cervix, and into your uterus. This tube is the hysteroscope.
Your doctor sends either gas or saline through the hysteroscope to improve visibility. They can see the lining of your uterus, as well as the openings of your fallopian tubes with the hysteroscope.
If your doctor finds any abnormal growths or tissues, they can insert surgical tools through the hysteroscope to remove them. They can also gather tissue samples for a biopsy. In general, a hysteroscopy procedure takes about 20-40 minutes.
Is a hysteroscopy painful?
The team at Raveco Medical doesn’t want you to feel stressed about your upcoming hysteroscopy procedure. Your doctor may prescribe a sedative medication to take beforehand — someone needs to drive you to and from the procedure in this case — to help you relax.
During your minimally invasive hysteroscopy, your doctor applies a topical numbing solution to your cervix and uterus. This may burn a little. For a diagnostic hysteroscopy, this is about the most discomfort you should feel.
Because your doctor might need to remove tissues, they ensure the targeted area is thoroughly numb. While you might feel some pressure or mild cramping, you shouldn’t feel severe pain. Most women report that a biopsy or tissue removal during a hysteroscopy feels like temporary menstrual cramps.
Book your hysteroscopy appointment with Raveco Medical today. Schedule online or call to speak with a team member directly.
