Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is the process of examining a cavity present in the uterus through endoscopy. An endoscope is used to perform the procedure. It is generally performed to examine intrauterine pathology and can also be used for surgeries. Based on issues or symptoms a patient is experiencing, the surgeon may suggest opting for diagnostic or operative hysteroscopy. Diagnostic hysteroscopy helps in detecting any structural irregularities in the uterus. On the other hand, operative hysteroscopy can be an effective option for treating different issues related to the uterus so one can conceive.
Symptoms That May Require a Hysteroscopy
One of the most common symptoms of opting for this procedure is longer periods with excessive bleeding. Other symptoms for which hysteroscopy can be performed include:
· Bleeding after menopause
· Abnormal Pep test results . A Pep test or Papanicolaou test is an exam a doctor conducts to identify the presence of cervical cancer in women.
· Intrauterine device dislocation
· Scarring, polyps or fibroids on the uterus
· Multiple miscarriages
Hysteroscopy Procedure
Before the procedure, the patient may be given some medications, like sedatives, to lower the pain. Based on the condition, local or general anaesthesia can be given to lower the pain. The surgeon may use medications to dilate the cervix to perform the surgery efficiently.
During this procedure, the surgeon will insert a small and thin tube with a camera and light into the vagina to examine the cervix and the uterus. The surgeon will pump fluid or carbon dioxide into the uterus through the device to get a clear image of the organs.
Then they will gently move the hysteroscope in the uterus to capture images of the openings and tissues of the fallopian tubes. The doctor will analyse the images to find any issues.
If a biopsy is required, then performing an operative hysteroscopy , a small tissue sample will be collected. If sterilisation is needed, the surgeon will place small implants inside the fallopian tubes.
The entire procedure can take around 30 to 60 minutes. But if it is a diagnostic hysteroscopy, it may take just 10 to 15 minutes. The procedure generally doesn't cause much pain, but some patients may experience cramps during the procedure.
Recovery After Hysteroscopy
As general or local anaesthesia is given during hysteroscopy, the patient may be asked to stay at the hospital until the effect wears off. However, recovery is fast, and one can perform regular tasks normally around 4 to 5 days after the surgery.
Some women may experience bleeding or spotting, and cramping after the procedure. As these are normal symptoms, they don't need to panic.
The surgeon may suggest that the patient should avoid sexual intercourse for around one to two weeks to lower the risk of any infection.
Possible Risks
Some women who have undergone the procedure may face the following complications:
· Dizziness
· Damage to the womb or infection
· Cervix damage
· Heavy bleeding after or during the procedure.
However, these complications can be treated. Consult the doctor for medical attention.
Should One Go For It?
Patients facing multiple miscarriages or vaginal bleeding problems should consult their doctor for a hysteroscopy. The procedure is safe, and recovery time is also comparatively fast. When treating issues in the uterus, most doctors suggest their patients go for a hysteroscopy.
It has been seen that most women feel comfortable returning to their normal activity just one day after the surgery. However, to avoid any complications, it will be better for patients to rest for at least 3 to 4 days.
The minimum cost of hysteroscopy in RR Nagar can range between Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000. The maximum amount paid for hysteroscopy in RR Nagar can go up to Rs. 60,000.
During the procedure, your surgeon may use local anaesthesia infiltration without or with sedation. In some cases, paracervical anaesthesia or combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia can be used.
The effect of a general anaesthetic can last for around 10 to 40 minutes. However, based on the type of anaesthesia used, the effect can be felt for around 3 to 4 hours.
Hysteroscopy does not affect the menstrual cycle. If you are going through the procedure to remove the fibroids or polyps that caused painful or heavy periods, you may experience less painful periods. But in some cases, spotting, minor bleeding or irregular periods can be experienced.
