Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure that allows a doctor to see the inside of the uterus using a thin, lighted camera. It is widely used in gynaecology to diagnose and treat uterine conditions that can cause abnormal bleeding, infertility, pain, or other concerns.

What Is Hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a doctor examines the inside of the uterus using a device called a hysteroscope. A hysteroscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a tiny camera and light at the tip.

During the procedure: • The hysteroscope is passed through the vagina • It goes through the cervix (the opening of the uterus) • It enters the uterine cavity, allowing direct visual inspection

The images from the camera are displayed on a screen, giving the doctor a clear view of the uterine lining.

Hysteroscopy can be performed: • In a hospital operating room • In a day-care surgical unit • In a specialised outpatient clinic

Depending on the purpose, it may be done as a diagnostic procedure, a treatment procedure, or both at the same time.

Why Is Hysteroscopy Done?

Hysteroscopy is used to diagnose uterine problems, treat abnormalities, or guide further medical care.

Common Reasons for Hysteroscopy

Your doctor may recommend hysteroscopy to: • Evaluate abnormal uterine bleeding • Investigate heavy, irregular, or prolonged periods • Assess bleeding after menopause • Remove an intrauterine device (IUD) that cannot be removed easily • Remove uterine polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue • Examine the shape and structure of the uterus • Diagnose causes of infertility or repeated pregnancy loss • Take a biopsy (small tissue sample) from the uterine lining • Confirm findings seen on ultrasound or other imaging tests

Because hysteroscopy allows direct visualisation, it is often more accurate than imaging tests alone.

Types of Hysteroscopy

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy

Used to: • Look inside the uterus • Identify the cause of symptoms • Confirm or rule out abnormalities

No treatment may be done during the procedure.

Operative (Therapeutic) Hysteroscopy

Used to treat problems found during diagnostic hysteroscopy, such as: • Removing polyps or fibroids • Cutting scar tissue (adhesions) • Removing a retained IUD • Correcting uterine shape abnormalities • Performing targeted biopsies

In many cases, diagnosis and treatment are completed in one procedure, avoiding the need for open surgery.

How Do I Prepare for a Hysteroscopy?

Preparation depends on whether the procedure is diagnostic or operative and whether anaesthesia will be used.

Medical Evaluation

Before hysteroscopy, your doctor will: • Perform a physical and pelvic examination • Review your medical and surgical history • Order tests if needed, such as: o Blood tests o Pregnancy test o Ultrasound or other imaging studies

Medications and Health History

Tell your doctor about: • All prescription medicines • Over-the-counter medicines • Herbal supplements or vitamins • Any allergies • Any history of bleeding disorders • The date of your last menstrual period

Some medications may need to be paused before the procedure.

Cervical Preparation

In some cases, medication may be given: • The night before or a few hours before the procedure • To soften and gently dilate the cervix

This helps reduce discomfort and lowers the risk of cervical injury.

Eating and Drinking Instructions

Depending on sedation or anaesthesia: • You may need to fast for several hours • In some cases, clear liquids may be allowed until shortly before the procedure

Your healthcare team will give you exact instructions.

Planning for After the Procedure

If sedation or anaesthesia is used: • Arrange for someone to take you home • Plan to rest for the remainder of the day

Always ask questions if anything is unclear.

What Happens During a Hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy usually takes 10 to 30 minutes, depending on whether treatment is performed.

Before the Procedure • An IV line may be placed for fluids and medications • Your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are monitored

Pain Control and Anaesthesia

Depending on the situation, you may: • Be awake without sedation • Receive sedative medications to help you relax • Receive local or general anaesthesia for pain control

Some people are advised to take pain-relieving medicine such as ibuprofen before or after the procedure.

Step-by-Step Procedure

You are positioned for a pelvic examination.

The cervix may be gently dilated if needed.

The hysteroscope is passed through the cervix into the uterus.

A sterile fluid or gas is used to expand the uterus for better viewing.

The doctor carefully examines the uterine lining on a monitor.

If needed: o A biopsy is taken o Polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue are removed o An IUD or abnormal tissue is extracted

The fluid or gas is removed, and the hysteroscope is withdrawn.

The procedure is performed with precision to minimise discomfort and complications.

What Happens After a Hysteroscopy?

Recovery Area

After the procedure: • You are observed while sedation or anaesthesia wears off • Most people go home the same day

Common After-Effects

It is normal to experience: • Light vaginal bleeding or spotting for a few days • Mild cramping • Temporary fatigue or grogginess

Pain is usually mild and can be managed with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Activity and Self-Care

• Avoid driving or work for the rest of the day • Resume normal activities as advised • Avoid intercourse, tampons, or vaginal products until cleared by your doctor

Your care team will provide personalised instructions.

What Are the Risks of Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is generally safe, especially when performed by experienced specialists. However, as with any procedure, risks exist.

Possible Risks Include: • Infection • Bleeding • Injury to the cervix or uterus • Injury to nearby organs such as the bladder or bowel • Fluid overload • Embolism, where gas or fluid enters the bloodstream (rare)

These complications are uncommon. If they occur, prompt treatment is provided.

Follow-Up Care After Hysteroscopy

Your doctor will schedule a follow-up visit to: • Review your recovery • Discuss biopsy or pathology results • Plan further treatment if needed

If a biopsy was taken, results are usually available within a few days to two weeks.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Seek medical advice immediately if you experience: • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher • Chills • Chest pain or shortness of breath • Heavy vaginal bleeding lasting more than one hour • Foul-smelling, green, or dark yellow vaginal discharge • Severe or worsening abdominal pain

Early attention helps prevent complications.

Life After Hysteroscopy

Most people recover quickly and return to normal activities within a day or two. Hysteroscopy often: • Provides clear diagnostic answers • Treats uterine problems without major surgery • Improves symptoms such as bleeding or pain • Helps guide fertility or cancer-related care

When used appropriately, hysteroscopy can significantly improve quality of life.

##Advanced Gynaecological Care at KIMSHEALTH

KIMSHEALTH offers comprehensive diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy services as part of its advanced women’s health programme.

Our gynaecology services include: • Diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy • Management of abnormal uterine bleeding • Fertility-related uterine evaluation • Minimally invasive treatment of polyps and fibroids • Experienced surgeons and modern surgical infrastructure

We are committed to safe, precise, and patient-centred care.

If you are experiencing abnormal bleeding, fertility concerns, or have been advised to undergo hysteroscopy:

Book a consultation with the Gynaecology team at KIMSHEALTH today.

Our specialists will guide you through the procedure, explain results clearly, and ensure you receive evidence-based care with compassion and expertise.

KIMSHEALTH – Precision Care for Women’s Health.