Understanding Hysteroscopy: Procedure, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

Hysteroscopy

Endoscopic viewing of the inside of the uterus.Performed for dysmenorrhea, benign fibromas, or endometriosis

Hysteroscopy is a medical procedure in which a thin and lighted scope (hysteroscope) is used to examine the inside of the uterus. The hysteroscope is inserted into the vagina and passed through the cervix to view the internal reproductive organs of a woman. With this procedure, a physician can diagnose the causes of abnormal bleeding, infertility, and uterine fibroids.

During a hysteroscopy, a woman is usually placed in lithotomy position (lying on her back with her knees bent and feet in stirrups). The cervix is then dilated or stretched and a sterile solution of saline or carbon dioxide gas is injected to expand the uterus for better visualization. The hysteroscopy procedure may be done under general anesthesia, local anesthesia or conscious sedation depending on the preference of the patient and the complexity of the procedure.

During the procedure, the physician will view the images taken by the hysteroscope to identify any abnormalities, take samples for biopsy, or remove polyps and fibroids from the uterus.

After the hysteroscopy procedure, the patient may have some mild cramping, discharge, or spotting which may last for a few days. Patients are usually advised to avoid sexual intercourse, the use of tampons and heavy lifting for a few days after the procedure. It is important to follow the post-operative instructions carefully and attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your physician.

In summary, hysteroscopy is an essential diagnostic procedure that offers a minimally invasive option for evaluating and treating some gynecologic conditions. It allows for a more definitive diagnosis and can lead to faster treatment, reducing discomfort and providing effective results.

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