Hysteroscopy

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