PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET
What is a hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure used to look inside and examine the womb using a fine telescope. It can be used to sample the lining of the womb (biopsy), to remove polyps (fleshy growths of the lining of the womb), to remove fibroids (growths within the muscle of the womb )or to look for possible cancer.
Why do I need this procedure?
The most common reason is to investigate abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding after the menopause, bleeding between periods, heavy periods, or bleeding after sex. Other reasons can include the removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device (a copper coil or Mirena hormonal intrauterine system) or fertility investigations.
Before arriving for your appointment
We would advise you to take simple pain relief such as paracetamol or mefenamic acid 1-2 hours before your appointment. This is to help reduce any crampy ‘period’ type pain that you may experience during the procedure.
How is a hysteroscopy carried out?
When you attend the hysteroscopy clinic the nurse will guide you to the procedure room and you will be asked to remove your lower clothes. She will be with you for the whole of the procedure. She will answer your questions and make you feel comfortable.
A thin hysteroscope (a telescope thinner than a pencil) is gently passed via the labia and the vagina is examined. It is then passed through the cervix to look at the endometrium (inner lining of the womb). A small amount of clean water passes through the telescope into the womb so that all of the lining can be seen clearly. The hysteroscope pictures can be seen by the doctor / specialist nurse on a TV screen that you can also see if you wish.
