What is Hysteroscopy? In Which Conditions Is It Performed?
What is Hysteroscopy? In Which Conditions Is It Performed?
Hysteroscopy, which is used for both diagnosis and certain treatment processes in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, is one of the modern gynecological methods that helps evaluate the inside of the uterus in detail. It is particularly used to evaluate abnormal bleeding, structural intrauterine problems, or certain conditions that may affect family planning. Being among the minimally invasive (closed method) approaches, this method can provide life-saving information for eligible patient groups.
What is Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows the visualization of the intrauterine cavity by entering through the cervix with a specialized, thin device equipped with a light and camera system (hysteroscope). Thanks to this method, the inside of the uterus can be directly evaluated. Hysteroscopy is performed for two main purposes:
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Diagnostic Hysteroscopy: It is used to examine the structural status, polyps, or adhesions inside the uterus.
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Operative Hysteroscopy: It is performed to treat problems such as polyps, small myomas, adhesions, or a uterine septum during the same session.
In Which Conditions Can Hysteroscopy Be Performed?
Following a specialist evaluation, this method can be used in the following situations:
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Abnormal or irregular uterine bleeding and postmenopausal bleeding
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Suspicion of intrauterine polyps and submucosal myomas
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Recurrent miscarriages or infertility evaluation
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The presence of intrauterine adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome) or a uterine septum
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Removal of a misplaced intrauterine device (IUD)
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Endometrial biopsy planning
How is Hysteroscopy Performed?
The procedure can be carried out in a clinic setting or under operating room conditions depending on its purpose. The general process is as follows:
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The cervix is accessed through the vaginal route.
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The hysteroscope device is gently advanced into the uterus.
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To see the inside of the uterus more clearly, the uterine cavity is expanded by introducing fluid or gas.
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The entire inside of the uterus is evaluated on a screen via the camera; surgical intervention is performed if necessary.
Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia can be preferred based on the scope of the procedure.
Preparation Before Hysteroscopy
A physician’s evaluation prior to the procedure is of vital importance. During this process, pregnancy status, the presence of an active infection, medications used, and the timing of the menstrual cycle (it is generally preferred right after the period ends) are taken into consideration.
The Post-Hysteroscopy Process
Many patients can return to their daily lives shortly after the procedure. The following may be observed for a few days post-procedure:
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Mild groin pain or cramps
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Vaginal bleeding in the form of spotting
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Shoulder pain (depending on the introduced gas or fluid)
What Are the Advantages of Hysteroscopy?
The primary advantages of this method provided by modern medicine include:
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Since no surgical incision is made, the recovery process is very rapid.
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The inside of the uterus is visualized directly and clearly.
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Diagnosis and treatment (intervention) can be performed in the same session.
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The duration of hospital stay is considerably short.
Is Hysteroscopy Important for Those Planning a Pregnancy?
Yes, particularly intrauterine septums, adhesions, or polyps can prevent the embryo from implanting. Removing these obstacles with hysteroscopy can increase the chances of conceiving naturally or improve success rates in IVF treatments.
Conclusion
Hysteroscopy is considered one of the gold standard methods for both the definitive diagnosis and effective treatment of intrauterine problems. You can plan this process with your specialist physician to clarify suspicious conditions detected during regular gynecological follow-ups.
Important Note: This content is for informational purposes only. Please consult an obstetrician-gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment choices.
