Hysteroscopy: Purpose, Procedure, Cost & Recovery

Hysteroscopy is a diagnostic and treatment procedure used to examine the inside of the uterus. A hysteroscope, a thin telescope with a light camera, is inserted through the vagina to identify structural irregularities in the cervix and uterus. If you're considering a hysteroscopy, you may have questions about its hysteroscopy procedure steps, pain, risks, and impact on fertility.

This article answers these questions and covers the hysteroscopy procedure step by step, costs, and potential hysteroscopy side effects.

What Is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy uses a hysteroscope to view the inside of the uterus. The device, inserted through the vagina and cervix, transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to identify any issues.

Why Would I Need This Procedure?

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy:

Investigates symptoms like heavy periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, or repeated miscarriages.
Diagnoses conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or scarring of the uterus.
Checks for blocked fallopian tubes.
Explores the cause of pelvic pain.

Operative Hysteroscopy:

Treats issues found during diagnostic hysteroscopy, such as removing fibroids, polyps, displaced IUDs, or intrauterine adhesions.
Performs sterilization procedures or tissue biopsies for further investigation.

Hysteroscopy Procedure Steps

Preparation: Discuss your medical history with your doctor. You may need to stop certain medications and undergo blood tests. If anesthesia is required, you might need to fast.
During the Procedure:
- You will change into a hospital gown and empty your bladder.
- A speculum is inserted into the vagina, and the cervix is dilated.
- The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
- Gas or a liquid solution is used to expand the uterus and clear blood or mucus.
- The doctor inspects the uterus and fallopian tubes. Photos or tissue samples may be taken.
- If needed, additional tools may be used to address any abnormalities.

What to Expect During Hysteroscopy Recovery

Post-procedure, you will be monitored until the anesthesia wears off. Most people resume normal activities the next day, though rest is advised if general anesthesia was used. You can return to your normal diet, but expect mild cramping or bleeding. Pain medication may be prescribed. Avoid sex for at least two weeks or until bleeding stops to reduce infection risk.

Hysteroscopy Side Effects and Risks

Hysteroscopy risks are minimal, with complications occurring in less than 1% of cases. Possible side effects include:

Damage to the Womb: Rarely, a puncture may occur, treatable with antibiotics or surgery.
Damage to the Cervix: Rare, but repairable if it happens.
Excessive Bleeding: Can occur, usually treatable with medication.
Womb Infections: Indicated by fever, discharge, or heavy bleeding, typically treatable with medication.
Feeling Faint or Dizzy: Common due to anesthesia.

What Is the Cost of Hysteroscopy

The hysteroscopy cost ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹50,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used and the hospital. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is generally less expensive than operative hysteroscopy.

Conclusion

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for examining and treating issues inside the womb. The recovery period is short, and while some risks are associated with the procedure, they are rare. For those facing fertility challenges, alternatives such as IVF, IUI, egg freezing, or surrogacy are available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery after hysteroscopy is usually quick, with many women able to resume normal activities within a day. Some may experience mild cramping and light bleeding for a few days post-procedure.

A diagnostic hysteroscopy is a brief procedure, typically lasting between 5 to 10 minutes. This duration may vary based on the complexity of the case and findings during the examination.

Hysteroscopy provides direct visualization of the uterus, offering a comprehensive view of any abnormalities. In contrast, biopsy involves taking tissue samples for detailed examination. Both procedures serve different diagnostic purposes depending on the clinical need.

Hysteroscopy can be uncomfortable without anesthesia. While some women may tolerate it, most procedures involve local or general anesthesia to minimize discomfort and pain.

No, stitches are generally not needed after hysteroscopy. The procedure uses a thin instrument inserted through the cervix, which minimizes tissue trauma. Recovery typically involves minimal discomfort and does not usually require stitches.