Hysteroscopy is a procedure to look at the inside of the womb (uterus). Your doctor can look at:
- The opening to the womb (cervix)
- The inside of the womb
- The openings of the fallopian tubes
This procedure is commonly used to diagnose bleeding problems in women, remove polyps or fibroids, or perform sterilization procedures.
Alternative Names
Hysteroscopic surgery; Operative hysteroscopy; Uterine endoscopy; Uteroscopy
Description
Hysteroscopy gets its name from the thin, lighted tool used to view the womb, called a hysteroscope. This tool sends images of the inside of the womb to a video monitor.
Before the procedure, you will be given medicine to help you relax and block pain. Sometimes, medicine is given to help you fall asleep.
- The doctor places the scope through the vagina and cervix, into the womb.
- Gas or fluid may be placed into the womb so it expands. This helps the doctor see the area better.
- Pictures of the womb can be seen on the video screen.
Small tools can be placed through the scope to remove abnormal growths (fibroids or polyps) or tissue for examination.
- Certain treatments, such as ablation, can also be done through the scope. Ablation uses heat, cold, or electricity to destroy the lining of the womb.
- Another treatment that can be done through the scope is called the Essure procedure. This places coils into your fallopian tubes to block them and prevent future pregnancy.
Hysteroscopy can last from 15 minutes to more than 1 hour, depending on what is done.