Hysteroscopy is a procedure that is carried out for determining and curing the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding in women. Women who suffer from abnormal uterine bleeding opt for this procedure. Hysteroscopy also involves removing any small fibroids or polyps present in the uterus that can be a cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.
Upon discussing with a gynecologist regarding my irregular periods, and the reason behind the extreme pain caused during the periods. I realized that I was suffering from the endometrial polyp.
I was frightened to hear that from my gynecologist and asked her for the various treatment options available. She suggested me to undergo a hysteroscopy surgical procedure, which is a day care procedure. I wanted to know more about the procedure and asked her everything about it. My gynecologist suggested me not to worry because hysteroscopy is a useful and safe procedure and involves minimally invasive technique.
I was concerned about the side effects and what if the bleeding is still pertinent causing me great pain. She explained to me that it’s normal to have some vaginal bleeding and cramping for a few days after the procedure. She explained to me regarding the bleeding that can occur after hysteroscopy.
How long does bleeding last after hysteroscopy?
The bleeding depends upon the type of procedure performed on an individual.
- If hysteroscopy procedure is carried out for Dilation and curettage one may experience cramps and backache similar to menstrual cramps. They may also pass small clots of blood from their vagina for several weeks after undergoing dilation and curettage procedure.
- If a person has undergone polyp or fibroid removal surgery through hysteroscopy. She may experience bleeding for one or two days after the procedure and may not require any special attention.
- However, large polyp’s removal may cause bleeding during the procedure which is stopped by applying silver nitrate which is a chemical substance. This procedure for large polyp removal is carried out in operation theater.
- In case, you experience any severe pain after the procedure followed by heavy bleeding, fever, and discharge, contact your doctor immediately.
Post-operative care
- The doctor may provide certain pain killers and anti-biotic to relieve pain and prevent infection.
- The doctor may also advise not to douche for at least two weeks after a hysteroscopy
- Always maintain proper hygiene, and clean your part from front to back.
Benefits of Hysteroscopy procedure
Hysteroscopy has a lot of benefits over other procedures; some of them are listed below
- It is a daycare, an outpatient procedure where a patient can leave the hospital the same day
- Recovery time is quite short.
- No restrictions on anything and very less medication is prescribed after the procedure
- Minimally invasive surgery, no need for hysterectomy
What are the risks associated with hysteroscopy procedure
There are very rare chances of risks associated with hysteroscopy procedure that involves
- Injury to the cervix, uterus, bowel or bladder while inserting a hysteroscope.
- Heavy bleeding can occur due to intrauterine scarring.
- Some people may be allergic towards the substance inserted into the uterus through hysteroscope ex- fluid or CO2 gas
Even though the hysteroscopy procedure is found to have certain risks, it is found to have great benefits when compared to other surgical procedures. One should not hesitate to take this option when provided by your gynecologist.
FAQ’S
Q.1 Does hysteroscopy procedure can cause pain?
You will be under general, local or regional anesthesia while performing the procedure. So there will be no pain during the procedure. After the procedure, you may experience a certain amount of pain which is usually like menstrual cramps.
Q.2. Can a hysteroscopy procedure detect cancer?
Yes, if your ultrasound detects any unusual matter, an operative hysteroscopy can be used to detect the cancer cells. In this, a biopsy procedure is carried out where few cells from uterine wall lining or cervix are isolated. This sample collected is sent to a laboratory for further diagnosis.
