What is Hysteroscopy? Methods, Benefits and Recovery Process

Hysteroscopy is a surgical method used to examine and treat the internal structure of the uterus. In this procedure, a thin and lighted instrument, hysteroscope, is placed into the uterus through the vagina. Hysteroscopy can be used for diagnosis and treatment. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is used to diagnose abnormalities in the uterus, while surgical hysteroscopy is performed to treat intrauterine problems such as polyps and myomas. Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that is an effective and safe way to directly observe and treat problems in the uterus.
 

What is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a gynecological procedure used to visually examine the inside of the uterus and, if necessary, perform surgical intervention. This procedure uses a thin, lighted device called a hysteroscope. The hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina into the cervix and the inside of the uterus is examined in detail.

The Main Purpose of Hysteroscopy:

• Diagnostic Examination: It is used to diagnose abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, recurrent miscarriages or structural disorders inside the uterus.
• Surgical Intervention: Intrauterine problems such as polyps, myomas and adhesions can be treated surgically with this method.

This method is an effective procedure that provides rapid recovery with its minimally invasive structure in the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine problems.

Why is Hysteroscopy Performed?

Hysteroscopy is used to diagnose and treat various gynecological problems in women. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is performed to diagnose abnormal conditions in the uterus, while operative hysteroscopy is performed to treat these problems.

Areas of Use of Hysteroscopy:

• Abnormal Bleeding: To examine the causes of conditions such as postmenopausal bleeding, irregular menstrual bleeding or excessive bleeding.
• Polyps or Myomas: If there are polyps or myomas in the uterus, they can be diagnosed and removed with hysteroscopy.
• Infertility: Hysteroscopy is used to diagnose intrauterine problems related to infertility. Structural disorders in the uterus can be detected with this method.
• Intrauterine Adhesions (Asherman Syndrome): If there are adhesions in the uterus, these adhesions can be removed with hysteroscopy.

Hysteroscopy is a safe and effective method in the diagnosis and treatment of such problems.

Types of Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is divided into two basic groups according to its purpose: diagnostic hysteroscopy and operative hysteroscopy.

Types of Hysteroscopy:

1. Diagnostic Hysteroscopy: It is a procedure performed to examine the internal structure of the uterus and detect abnormalities. It is generally used for diagnostic purposes and is completed in a short time.
2. Operative Hysteroscopy: It is used to treat problems detected during diagnostic hysteroscopy. In this method, polyps, myomas or adhesions in the uterus are surgically removed using hysteroscopy.

Both types of hysteroscopy are minimally invasive and prioritize patient comfort.

How is Hysteroscopy Performed?

Hysteroscopy is a procedure usually performed under general or local anesthesia. The uterine cavity is examined in detail with the hysteroscope inserted through the vagina and the necessary treatment is performed.

Hysteroscopy Stages:

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is applied depending on the patient's condition.
2. Hysteroscope Placement: The vagina and cervix are widened and the hysteroscope is placed into the uterus.
3. Intrauterine Examination: The hysteroscope provides detailed visualization of the inside of the uterus and allows abnormalities to be detected.
4. Surgical Intervention (Operative Hysteroscopy): If necessary, polyps or myomas are removed with the help of a hysteroscope.

This The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes and the patient can go home the same day.

In What Situations Is Hysteroscopy Used?

Hysteroscopy can be used in many situations to examine and treat intrauterine structures. In addition to gynecological problems, fertility problems can also be treated with hysteroscopycan be investigated with.

Hysteroscopy Usage Areas:

• Myomas: Myomas in the uterus can be removed with hysteroscopy or their dimensions can be examined.
• Polyps: Polyps in the uterus can be diagnosed with this method and surgically removed.
• Infertility: Abnormalities in the uterus can be investigated with this method in women experiencing infertility problems.
• Abnormal Bleeding: The causes of abnormal bleeding caused by structural problems in the uterus can be determined.
• Intrauterine Adhesions: Asherman syndrome, is used in the treatment of intrauterine adhesions.

Hysteroscopy is a safe and effective method in the diagnosis and treatment of such problems.

Benefits of Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a method that offers significant advantages in the diagnosis and treatment of many gynecological problems. Being minimally invasive increases patient comfort and speeds up the healing process.

Main Benefits of Hysteroscopy:

• Minimally Invasive: There is no need for large incisions for imaging intrauterine structures and surgical intervention.
• Fast Recovery Process: Patients usually recover in a short time after hysteroscopy and can return to their daily activities.
• Clear Diagnosis and Treatment: It provides clear diagnosis and treatment opportunities by directly observing intrauterine problems.
• Simultaneous Treatment Possibility: Problems detected during hysteroscopy can be treated simultaneously can be done.

These advantages have made hysteroscopy popular for both diagnosis and treatment.

Recovery Process After Hysteroscopy

The recovery process after hysteroscopy is usually quick and uneventful. Most patients are discharged on the same day and can return to their normal lives within a few days. However, there are some points to consider after the procedure.

Things to Consider During the Recovery Process:

• Light Bleeding: Light bleeding or spotting may occur for a few days after the procedure. This is normal.
• Pain Management: There may be mild groin pain, which can usually be controlled with painkillers.
• Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 1-2 weeks after hysteroscopy.
• Physical Activity: It is recommended to avoid heavy physical activities and exercises for the first few days.

The recovery period is usually short, and patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

Risks of Hysteroscopy

Although hysteroscopy is generally a safe procedure, it carries some risks, as with any surgical intervention. However, these risks occur rarely and are usually mild complications.

Possible Risks:

• Infection: Infection of the uterus or pelvic area can occur, although rare.
• Bleeding: Light bleeding may occur during or after hysteroscopy.
• Uterine Perforation: Rarely, a small hole may form in the uterine wall, in which case additional treatment may be required.

It is important to consult your doctor if any complications develop after hysteroscopy.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Some preparations may need to be made before hysteroscopy. These preparations ensure that the procedure is carried out smoothly and the recovery process is comfortable.

Preparation Before Hysteroscopy:

• Blood Tests: Necessary blood tests can be performed before hysteroscopy.
• Fasting: If general anesthesia is to be applied, you may need to fast for a few hours before the surgery.
• Medication Use: You should use the medications recommended by your doctor regularly and get information about the medications you should use or stop using before the surgery.

Following the instructions given by your doctor is important for the success of the surgery.

Candidates for Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is generally appropriate for most women because it is used to diagnose and treat a variety of problems related to the uterus. However, it may not be appropriate for every woman.

Candidates for Hysteroscopy:

• Women Experiencing Abnormal Bleeding: PostmenopausalWomen with irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Women Detected with Polyps or Myomas: Those with polyps or myomas in the uterus.
• Women with Infertility Problems: Those who need to have intrauterine abnormalities evaluated to investigate infertility problems.

Your doctor will determine if it is appropriate for you.

Use of Anesthesia During Hysteroscopy

The use of anesthesia during hysteroscopy depends on the type of procedure to be performed and the patient's preference. Hysteroscopy can be performed with general or local anesthesia.

Anesthesia Options:

• Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used for mildly painful procedures and the patient is awake during the procedure.
• General Anesthesia: General anesthesia may be preferred for more complex surgical procedures.

Your doctor will determine the most appropriate anesthesia method during the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does hysteroscopy take?

It usually takes between 15-30 minutes.

2. How much rest should I have after the procedure?

Most patients are discharged the same day and can return to their daily activities within a few days.

3. Is hysteroscopy painful?

The procedure is usually mildly painful, but this pain can be minimized with local or general anesthesia.

4. When can I have sexual intercourse after hysteroscopy?

You can usually start having sexual intercourse after 1-2 weeks, with your doctor's advice.

5. Are complications common after hysteroscopy?

Complications are rare and are usually limited to mild complications.