Hysteroscopy

If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, have been told you may have a uterine polyp or fibroid, or need further assessment of the uterine cavity, hysteroscopy may be recommended. At Surgical Solutions Network, we offer this gynaecology procedure at our surgical centre in Burnaby, British Columbia, for patients seeking timely access to private care in Canada. A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a surgeon to look inside the uterus, also called the womb, using a thin camera called a hysteroscope. It may be done for diagnosis, treatment, or both. 

Why Choose Surgical Solutions Network for Private Gynaecology Care? 

Through Surgical Solutions Network’s accredited surgical centres, patients who require gynaecologic procedures may benefit from timely access to assessment and treatment, experienced surgeons and trained teams, modern equipment and safety-focused protocols, and a co-ordinated, patient-centred experience focused on education, comfort, and recovery. 

What Does Hysteroscopy Treat? 

A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a surgeon to look inside the uterus (womb) using a thin camera called a hysteroscope. It may be done for diagnosis, treatment, or both. 

Your surgeon may recommend hysteroscopy to assess or treat: 

• Abnormal uterine bleeding, including heavy periods, irregular bleeding, or bleeding after menopause 

• Endometrial polyps (growths in the lining of the uterus) 

• Submucosal fibroids (fibroids that bulge into the uterine cavity) 

• Thickened endometrium seen on ultrasound 

• Retained tissue after pregnancy or miscarriage (in select cases) 

• Uterine adhesions (scar tissue inside the uterus, sometimes called Asherman’s syndrome) 

• Congenital uterine differences (certain structural findings such as a uterine septum, in selected patients) 

• Evaluation of infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss, when looking inside the uterine cavity may help clarify the cause 

• IUD concerns, such as a missing string, malposition, or when removal is difficult 

Not every patient with these symptoms needs hysteroscopy. Your surgeon will recommend the best test or treatment based on your symptoms, imaging, and medical history. 

How Does a Hysteroscopy Work? 

Details vary based on the reason for hysteroscopy and the type of hysteroscopy performed (diagnostic vs operative), but the steps often follow this general pathway. 

Before the Procedure 

• You may have an ultrasound or other imaging beforehand. 

• Your medical history, medications, and allergies will be reviewed. 

• Your care team will provide instructions about eating and drinking (fasting) and medications, especially blood thinners. 

• Depending on the plan, you may be advised to take medication to help soften or open the cervix. 

Anaesthesia and Setting 

Hysteroscopy may be performed: 

• In a surgical setting with sedation or general anaesthesia, or 

• In a clinic setting with local anaesthetic and comfort measures 

The best option depends on what needs to be done, your medical history, and your comfort level. 

Hysteroscopy Step by Step 

• A speculum is placed in the vagina (similar to a Pap test). 

• The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. 

• The uterine cavity is gently expanded using fluid so the surgeon can see clearly. 

• The surgeon examines the uterine lining and openings of the fallopian tubes. 

If treatment is needed, instruments may be passed through the hysteroscope to: 

• Remove polyps 

• Remove certain fibroids within the uterine cavity 

• Take a biopsy of the uterine lining 

• Release scar tissue (adhesiolysis) 

• Remove or reposition an IUD, if indicated 

The hysteroscope is removed, and you’re moved to recovery if sedation or anaesthesia was used. 

Procedure time varies. A simple diagnostic hysteroscopy can be brief, while operative hysteroscopy may take longer depending on complexity. 

Benefits of Hysteroscopy 

For appropriately selected patients, hysteroscopy may offer: 

• Direct visual assessment of the uterine cavity (more precise than imaging alone in many cases) 

• Diagnosis and treatment in the same procedure for issues such as polyps or certain fibroids 

• No abdominal incisions (the camera is inserted through the cervix) 

• Short recovery time for many patients, especially after diagnostic hysteroscopy 

• Targeted treatment that can help address bleeding concerns or improve uterine cavity conditions in select fertility cases 

Who Might Be a Candidate for Hysteroscopy? 

You may be considered for hysteroscopy if: 

• You have abnormal bleeding that needs evaluation 

• Imaging suggests a polyp, submucosal fibroid, thickened lining, or other intrauterine finding 

• There is concern for uterine scarring or retained tissue 

• A biopsy is needed and hysteroscopy would allow more targeted sampling 

• IUD assessment or removal is difficult in a routine office setting 

When a Different Approach May Be Recommended 

• There is an active pelvic infection 

• You are pregnant (unless a very specific, urgent indication exists and your care team advises it) 

• A medical condition makes hysteroscopy unsafe at that time 

• Imaging or symptoms suggest another route of evaluation is more appropriate 

Your surgeon will review the safest plan based on your health history and goals. 

Risks and Possible Complications 

All medical procedures carry risk. Most complications are uncommon, but may include: 

• Cramping and temporary bleeding after the procedure 

• Infection 

• Bleeding 

• Reaction to anaesthesia or medications (when used) 

• Uterine perforation (a small hole in the uterus) – uncommon, but may require observation or additional treatment 

• Cervical injury – uncommon 

• Fluid overload or electrolyte imbalance (rare, more relevant when larger volumes of fluid are used during operative hysteroscopy) 

• Scar tissue formation inside the uterus (uncommon, more likely after extensive operative procedures) 

Your surgeon will review your individual risks and what they mean for your situation. 

Recovery and Rehabilitation 

Recovery depends on whether hysteroscopy was diagnostic or operative. 

Immediately After the Procedure 

• You may have cramping similar to menstrual cramps. 

• Light bleeding or spotting is common for a short time. 

• If you had sedation or general anaesthesia, you’ll be monitored in recovery and will need someone to take you home. 

Activity 

• Many patients return to normal light activity within 24-48 hours. 

• You may be advised to avoid intercourse, tampons, or swimming for a short period after the procedure, especially if a biopsy or treatment was performed. 

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care 

Contact your care team or seek urgent care if you have: 

• Fever or chills 

• Heavy bleeding (soaking pads), or bleeding that worsens instead of improves 

• Severe pain not controlled with recommended medication 

• Foul-smelling discharge 

• Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath 

Your care team will provide detailed post-procedure instructions and follow-up plans. 

How to Prepare 

Before hysteroscopy, your care team may: 

• Review medications, allergies, and medical history 

• Provide fasting instructions (if sedation or anaesthesia is planned) 

• Discuss pain control and what to expect during and after the procedure 

• Advise on timing in your menstrual cycle, depending on the reason for the hysteroscopy 

• Arrange pre-procedure testing if needed 

Planning a quiet day afterwards and arranging transportation (if sedation is used) can help make your recovery easier. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Next Steps: Book Your Consultation Today 

If you’re experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, have been told you may have a uterine polyp or fibroid, or need further assessment of the uterine cavity, we’re here to help. Contact Surgical Solutions Network to book your surgical consultation. Visit our Contact Us page or give us a call, and a member of our team will help guide you through the next steps.