Hysteroscopy
Reviewed
A hysteroscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, camera-equipped tube (hysteroscope) inserted through the vagina to view the inside of the uterus and cervix. It can be used to diagnose or treat conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or to remove an intrauterine device (IUD).
Preparation and collection
Your provider will give you specific instructions. If you are receiving general anesthesia, you may need to fast for 6-12 hours before the procedure. Do not use douches, tampons, or vaginal medicines for 24 hours before the test. Schedule the procedure when you are not menstruating. Tell your provider about all medicines you take, and do not stop any unless instructed. Inform your provider if you are pregnant or think you might be, as hysteroscopy is not recommended during pregnancy. Also, inform your provider if you have a pelvic infection, cervical cancer, or pelvic inflammatory disease, as hysteroscopy is not recommended in these cases.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- Hysteroscopy is not recommended if you are pregnant, have cervical cancer, or have pelvic inflammatory disease.
- The procedure provides visual information; a biopsy may be needed for a definitive diagnosis of certain conditions.
- Serious complications are rare but can include heavy bleeding, infection, or uterine tears.
- Mild cramping and bloody discharge are common after the procedure.
- Results must be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your overall health.
What to do next
After the procedure, your provider may recommend avoiding sex, tampons, douching, baths, swimming, or hot tubs for two weeks. Follow all post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare team. If you have questions about your results, talk to your provider.