What is Hysteroscopy and How Does it Work?

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used by gynecologists to examine the inside of the uterus. Dr. Ankita’s Fertility Center in Navi Mumbai, Mumbai specializes in this technique, which is primarily used to diagnose and treat issues related to the female reproductive system. With the advancement of medical technology, hysteroscopy has become a key tool for identifying conditions such as fibroids, polyps, and abnormal bleeding, as well as for monitoring fertility issues.

The procedure is performed using a device called a hysteroscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end. This allows the doctor to get a clear view of the uterine cavity without making large incisions. It’s commonly performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning most women can go home the same day.

Hysteroscopy

How Hysteroscopy Works

Hysteroscopy involves inserting the hysteroscope into the uterus through the cervix. Before the procedure, the cervix may be dilated, or the uterus may be filled with a sterile solution to expand it, creating a better view for the doctor. The camera on the hysteroscope sends real-time images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to carefully examine the uterus.

  • Diagnostic Hysteroscopy – This type is used to examine the uterus for abnormalities. It’s usually done when a woman experiences unusual symptoms like heavy or irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, or difficulty getting pregnant. The doctor may look for issues like fibroids, polyps, adhesions, or abnormalities in the uterine lining.

  • Operative Hysteroscopy – If a problem is found during a diagnostic hysteroscopy, an operative procedure may be performed at the same time. This can involve removing fibroids or polyps, correcting uterine septa (abnormal tissue growth), or treating adhesions. The advantage of this procedure is that it’s minimally invasive and usually doesn’t require an extended recovery time.

Benefits of Hysteroscopy

  • Minimally invasive: There are no large incisions required, which means less pain and a quicker recovery.
  • Accuracy: The camera provides a clear and detailed view, allowing the doctor to diagnose and treat the issue with great precision.
  • Outpatient procedure: Most hysteroscopy procedures don’t require an overnight stay in the hospital, so women can go home the same day.
  • Treatment at the same time: In many cases, the doctor can treat the problem during the procedure, saving time and reducing the need for a second surgery.

Who Needs a Hysteroscopy?

Women may be recommended to undergo a hysteroscopy if they experience:

  • Unexplained bleeding
  • Painful menstruation
  • Difficulty getting pregnant or recurrent miscarriages
  • Abnormalities seen in imaging tests such as ultrasounds
  • Fibroids, polyps, or other growths in the uterus

It is particularly helpful for women facing fertility issues or those who’ve had difficulty finding the cause of abnormal symptoms.

Conclusion

In summary, hysteroscopy is a safe and effective procedure used to look inside the uterus and treat a variety of conditions. It’s a minimally invasive option that can offer a fast diagnosis and even immediate treatment, all with minimal discomfort and recovery time. If you’re facing issues like heavy bleeding or infertility, consulting with an expert like Dr. Ankita at Dr. Ankita’s Fertility Center in Navi Mumbai could help you understand how this procedure might benefit you. It’s a great option for women seeking answers to their reproductive health concerns without undergoing major surgery.