About this procedure
During hysteroscopy a clinician passes a thin instrument containing a camera through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. Fluid helps gently open the uterine cavity, allowing the endometrium to be viewed directly. Some procedures are diagnostic; others may include sampling or targeted treatment.
Possible causes and features
Possible indications include bleeding between periods or after menopause, suspected endometrial polyps, certain submucosal fibroids or another finding inside the uterus. In selected cases it is used for endometrial biopsy or after assessment of fertility difficulties. Symptoms alone do not prove a hysteroscopy is required.
Before the procedure, the clinician explains its purpose, alternatives, pain relief and any contraindications. The setting and anaesthesia depend on the planned intervention and your needs; it may take place in an outpatient setting or operating theatre. You can request a stop or reassessment of pain relief if the examination becomes intolerable.
Assessment and next steps
A diagnostic view, biopsy and removal of a polyp are different levels of intervention. Tissue obtained for sampling can be examined by histology. Pregnancy possibility and current infection symptoms must be reported before planning; hysteroscopy is not carried out during pregnancy.
Mild period-like cramps and light spotting may occur afterwards. Recovery and restrictions depend on whether sampling or treatment was performed. Infection, heavy bleeding, uterine injury or anaesthesia-related complications are uncommon but important to discuss. This article does not confirm availability at any particular clinic branch.
Related topics: Bleeding after menopause; Endometrial polyp; Endometrial hyperplasia.
Signs and symptoms
- Unexplained uterine bleeding or bleeding after menopause.
- Suspected polyp, intracavitary fibroid or abnormal endometrial findings.
- A need for targeted tissue sampling following clinical assessment.
Diagnosis and tests
History and ultrasound findings generally inform whether hysteroscopy is appropriate. Beforehand, the team explains whether the plan is inspection, biopsy or treatment. Tissue samples may be sent for histology. Inform the team about any possibility of pregnancy, as hysteroscopy must not be performed during pregnancy.
Care and treatment approaches
Hysteroscopy can be diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic, such as when a polyp is removed. The potential risks include infection, significant bleeding, damage to the uterine wall and reactions to anaesthesia. The procedure, pain relief and need for admission are decided individually; local availability must be confirmed directly.
When to seek urgent care
Following hysteroscopy, contact the treating team urgently if bleeding increases, fever develops, discharge has an unpleasant smell or pain worsens despite recommended medicines. For fainting, very heavy bleeding or severe deterioration, seek emergency care and call 103 or 112 in Ukraine.
Frequently asked questions
How is hysteroscopy different from ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to assess the pelvic organs; hysteroscopy directly views the uterine cavity and can allow targeted biopsy.
Can hysteroscopy be painful?
Discomfort varies. Discuss pain relief beforehand and your right to pause or stop if pain becomes significant.
What problems after hysteroscopy require a call?
Increasing bleeding, fever, worsening pain or foul-smelling discharge should be reported to the medical team promptly.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
