This is a procedure that involves looking inside the uterus with a very slim telescope called a hysteroscope.
Its done for a variety of reasons- to investigate abnormal bleeding, to investigate something seen on an ultrasound, to identify fibroids or polyps inside the uterus and posible remove them, or to remove a coil with missing threads.
It usually takes around 10 minutes and some local anaesthetic can be used to make the procedure more comfortable. You may also be advised to take some simple painkillers 1 hour prior to your appointment.It also helps is you have something light to eat and are well hydrated before your procedure. You can bring a friend/ partner/ family member to support you. If you are finding it too uncomfortable, you can ask for the procedure to be stopped.
There are some possible risks which include pain, feeling faint, bleeding, infection ( less than 3 in 100 women) and very rarely, damage to the uterus( perforation- less than 1 in 200 procedures), or a failure to compete the procedure in the outpatient clinic. It may be more difficult to do the procedure if you are bleeding heavily.
If there is a chance that you may be pregnant, you should not have this procedure carried out- so use contraception or avoid sex between your last period and your appointment.
After your procedure, you may feel some cramps, which usually settle within a few hours but can sometimes last for a couple of days, and some spotting or light bleeding that can continue for up to a week. You can take paracetamol or Ibuprofen every 4-6 hours. Most women feel able to continue with normal activities that day. Avoid using tampons or having penetrative sex for a few days.
If a biopsy was taken, you will be contacted with the lab results once they are available.