Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy is a common gynaecological procedure, placing a thin camera through the cervix to evaluate the inside of the uterus (the endometrial cavity). This may be as an investigation or a treatment.
How
How is the procedure performed?
The uterus is filled with a clear fluid (saline) and clear views of the uterus obtained. Polyps and fibroids may be removed, IUDs placed (or removed), the endometrium ablated, or a septum resected.
Generally, a hysteroscopy is a day-case procedure, meaning the patient goes home the same day. Depending on the case and the patient, it may be performed under general anaesthetic (asleep), under light sedation, or awake using a local anaesthetic (office procedure).
Further reading
Related symptoms
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The two main types are ‘stress’ and ‘urge’ incontinence. Caused by giving birth and overactive bladder, respectively. Can also be caused by infection or prolapse.
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Commonly caused by hormone therapies, including oral contraceptives. Persistent bleeding may be due to genital tract infections, polyps, or cervical cancer.
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High volume, long-lasting periods with flooding, clotting or anaemia. Causes can include fibroids, polyps, hyperplasia, PCOS, infection, or endometriosis.
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Causes include endometriosis, infection, instability of the lining of the womb, ovarian cysts, perimenopause, PCOS, polyps, and early pregnancy.
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This needs to be investigated. Often due to fragile vaginal or endometrial tissue caused by lack of estrogen. Hyperplasia and cancer may be the cause in 5-10% of cases.
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Periods that last more than 7 days. Causes include fibroids, polyps, hyperplasia or cancer of the uterus, PCOS, genital tract infection, and endometriosis.
Related conditions
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Hyperplasia occurs when the inside lining of the uterus starts to behave abnormally and is a potential ‘pre-cancer’.
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Polyps are benign growths and can occur in the uterus, cervix or vagina. They can cause irregular or unscheduled bleeding.