A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the inside of a female's womb. It is carried out using a hysteroscope, which is nothing but a narrow telescope with a light and camera at the end. This flexible tube gives a visual examination of the canal of the cervix and the interior of the uterus. It allows a gynecologist to look inside the uterus and diagnose problems or progression of the uterus anomalies. 

An essential diagnostic test, hysteroscopy is beneficial for treating some problems that may be a potential cause of infertility, and miscarriages besides also finding out of the patient have symptoms that could indicate uterine cancer and may need immediate treatment. Although there are many benefits of hysteroscopy, it may not be right for everyone specifically you should not have a hysteroscopy if you are pregnant, or you have a current pelvic infection.

Also read: Hysterectomy: Types, Purpose, Procedure, Risks, And Recovery

Why Is Hysteroscopy Done?

Hysteroscopy allows a gynecologist to look inside your uterus through a hysteroscope that is about the size of straw along with a built-in viewing device. There are many factors that determine whether hysteroscopy is needed or not and it is useful for diagnosing and treating some problems such as:

● Heavy or irregular periods

● Pain in the pelvic region

● Abnormal menstrual bleeding

● Fibroids of the uterus

● Uterine septum or a malformation of the uterus that is present from birth.

● Tiny polyps inside the uterus

● Numerous miscarriages

● Post-menopausal bleeding

● To remove or place intrauterine devices

Also Read: Uterine Fibroids: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Preparation For The Test

Though hysteroscopy is a simple procedure, and there is not much to prepare before the test, however, the time one can schedule this test with her health practitioner plays a very important role. The surgeon after reviewing your medical history, will evaluate your current health to determine whether a hysteroscopy is appropriate. The doctors avoid a hysteroscopy when the person is pregnant. The gynecologist can get the required view of the uterine lining during the week that follows your period. If the menstrual cycle is regular, it becomes easier to anticipate the timing of your next period and plans to have the hysteroscopy done accordingly.

Risk Of Hysteroscopy 

Just like any diagnostic procedure, hysteroscopy also carried certain risks it. Since a hollow tube is inserted into the uterus, there could be mild to severe complications. The patient should alert the doctor immediately in case of problems. The earlier they are treated, the better it is for the patient to avoid any further complications. Since hysteroscopy has become increasingly an important test, the need to prevent the risks of hysteroscopy is essential. Some potential risks associated with the procedure can include:

Heavy Bleeding: 

Most women also should expect to pass small clots of blood for a few days after the procedure, and experience some light bleeding for another few days, in most cases, it should subside.

Infection:
 

Infection is an uncommon risk of post-operative hysteroscopy. But sometimes it can happen after a long surgery or if the insertion and removal of the hysteroscope are repeated.

Complications of Anesthesia: 

After the effect of anesthesia, the patient may feel nauseated and there could be shivering and itching. It may also cause dry mouth and sore throat.

Air Embolism: 

A rare phenomenon, gas may enter the tube during the procedure upping the risk of air embolism. If not addressed immediately, it can be fatal.

Uterine Perforation: 

One of the most common complications of the procedure where the lining of the uterus may get scarred during dilation or insertion of the tube. It may also cause damage to the cervix during the process.

Recovery After Hysteroscopy

While cramping and vaginal bleeding for a day or two after the procedure is normal, sudden fever, severe abdominal pain, or heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge should be reported. Otherwise, in most cases, the patient can eat and drink as normal straight away. The recovery time depends on how extensive the hysteroscopy procedure was because in some cases it can be both diagnostic and operative. People recovering from a hysterectomy are often advised to avoid douching, intercourse, or inserting anything into their vagina for about two to three weeks after the procedure. One may also be advised to avoid swimming and getting into hot tubs post the recovery.