Why Hysteroscopy?
If your gynecologist has recommended a hysteroscopy procedure, you may be wondering why and what you can expect. One common reason that your OBGYN may suggest this procedure is to find the cause of abnormal menstrual bleeding. Hysteroscopy can also be used to find abnormalities in the uterine size or shape. This can help if you have had problems with a missing intrauterine device (IUD), miscarriages, infertility, adhesions or other abnormal growths.The procedure is performed with a hysteroscope. This instrument is similar to a tiny telescope that allows the OBGYN to look around inside of your uterus. Your doctor can remove polyps or fibroids and also take biopsies of tissues that may be causing you problems. They do this by inserting tiny surgical instruments through the hysteroscope.
Most doctors will recommend general anesthesia for this procedure, though it is not always necessary. Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery because no incision is actually made. The hysteroscope can be inserted through the vagina and past the cervix. The doctor can get a good look around and even inspect the openings of your fallopian tubes. This can help to identify fertility problems.
Because this is a minimally invasive procedure, recovery time is generally very fast. Discuss with your doctor what you can expect before, during and after the procedure. Hysteroscopy is frequently and successfully used as a diagnostic instrument. In these cases, complications are very rare. The hysteroscope can also be used operatively and risks can be higher depending on what type of procedure you are having done. Again, be sure that you have a clear understanding of the risks and possible complications before undergoing any surgical procedure.
When diagnosing abnormalities of the uterus, your OBGYN may suggest that a sonohysterograph procedure be performed before you undergo hysteroscopy. This is primarily a procedure to give the doctor a good idea of what they can expect when they get inside. This can help prepare if it is obvious that an operative procedure will be necessary.
The sonohysterograph is a sonogram performed after the uterine cavity is filled with fluid. The fluid will be injected through your cervix. A fluid filled uterine cavity gives a much clearer view than a basic sonogram does. This is very helpful when searching for uterine abnormalities.
If you still have questions, please talk with your OBGYN before your procedure.
About the Author: Dr. Matthew Romberg, a Round Rock OBGYN specializing in obstetrical and gynecologic care, is the President of the Heart of Texas Women’s Center. The Heart of Texas Women’s Center provides state of the art health care including surgical procedures, family planning counseling, complete prenatal care including high risk pregnancy management, in-house ultrasonography and well-woman services. For more information, please visit http://www.hotwc.com.
Labels: about hysteroscopy, hysteroscopy, what is hysteroscopy
posted by Heart of Texas Women's Center @ 1:10 PM
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