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What is Hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is a diagnostic procedure that is administered to identify uterine issues in female patients. The procedure is done with the help of a device called the hysteroscope, which enables the doctor to view the interiors of the patient’s uterus.
This process is usually undergone for both surgical and diagnostic purposes. However, it is commonly used to make inferences that would further aid the treatment process.
Hysteroscopy and IVF
For many couples, multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts may point to underlying issues such as genetic difficulties or uterine problems. In cases like these, many hospitals opt for hysteroscopy for female patients as it is a great way to assess if the patient’s uterus is fit for childbearing.
The role of a hysteroscopy in the success of IVF treatment is not to be underestimated. Studies reveal that a patient’s likelihood of becoming pregnant is boosted by 20% to 40% when this procedure is undergone.
Diagnostic Hysteroscopy
This procedure is used to assess the uterus and make a cohesive diagnosis to know where the patient stands. At times, the results of such a procedure may even be used to complement other test results.
Diagnostic hysteroscopy is typically performed to treat bleeding post menopause, infertility or heavy periods. It may also be used to diagnose uterine polyps (a condition where there is tissue growth in the uterine lining.)
Operative Hysteroscopy
An operative hysteroscopy is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of an optical lens through the cervix to treat uterine diseases. This optical lens is what is called the hysteroscope, and it is used in surgery to observe within the uterus in order to facilitate the solving of any fertility issues.
A hysteroscopy surgery is generally advised for any patient who may have polyps or fibroids in their uterus. It may also be used to treat infertility, Asherman’s syndrome and menstrual changes.
There are also a few situations where an operative hysteroscopy is not advised. This surgery is not to be performed on pregnant women, and when there is an inflammation of the cervix or pelvis. Patients that are allergic to nickel or radioactive contrast dye are also not encouraged to undergo this procedure. It is also not to be performed on those suffering from uterine cancer.
When should a hysteroscopy be performed?
A hysteroscopy is typically advised by doctors for female patients who are experiencing problems with their reproductive organs. The purpose of this procedure is to detect and diagnose issues to enable their treatment. With a hysteroscopy, it is possible to diagnose the following issues:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Too much menstrual bleeding
- Post-menopausal bleeding.
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Uterine fibroids and polyps
- Causes of infertility
- Misplaced IUD
- Any uterine abnormalities
- Reason for extreme pelvic pain.