What should you expect from a hysteroscopy surgery?
Speculum, Hysteroscopy can be either diagnostic or operative.
Diagnostic hysteroscopy surgery is mostly done to collect more information about HSG (Hysterosalpingography). HSG is an X-ray test done to check the condition of the fallopian tubes and the uterus. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is usually required along with laparoscopy or before D & C (Dilation and Curettage).
As the name suggests, Operative hysteroscopy is done to operate and execute upon the findings from the diagnostic process.
Why is hysteroscopy surgery required?
Doctors suggest the procedure of hysteroscopy if you need to get your polyps or fibroids removed. It is also required when you have to get adhesions removed. Adhesions are bands of tissues that usually affect menstruation and fertility.
If you suffer from abnormal bleeding during periods or bleeding even after menopause you might need to get a diagnostic hysteroscopy done. Problems like septums, infertility, or out of place IUD can also be fixed with hysteroscopy. Additionally, the gynaecologist performs hysteroscopy if you are interested in birth control and are getting sterilisation done for that.
The Perfect Timing
Gynaecology specialists suggest waiting for a week after your periods to get the procedure of hysteroscopy done.
Procedure
The first and foremost step is to take care of your pain. For this, the doctor will give you a sedative or anaesthesia. Next, she’ll use the dilators and the speculum to open up your vagina and make space for the hysteroscope.
A hysteroscope is the long, slender tube used during the procedure to view your uterus using the light fixed at one end. Once the hysteroscope is pushed through your uterus the gynaecologist passes some carbon dioxide or a liquid solution to widen up the uterus. Finally, the gynaecologist makes good use of the light at one end and checks the lining of your uterus, fallopian tubes and other organs for problems.
If any issues are diagnosed, some tools are sent into the uterus for operative hysteroscopy.
The whole procedure can take anywhere around 30 minutes if it’s a diagnostic hysteroscopy surgery. Operative procedures tend to take a few hours.
How to prepare before hysteroscopy surgery?
If you consume any medication, make sure your specialist knows about it. If it’s related to blood-thinning or arthritis, it is recommended to avoid having them before the operation. In fact, it is better to avoid drinking any water or eating anything before the procedure. Also, you are suggested to avoid applying any skin products before hysteroscopy takes place.
Even if you follow these suggestions, it is extremely crucial to ask your gynaecologist about how to prepare for the procedure, as she will be able to guide you best.
What to ensure after hysteroscopy surgery?
Similar to any other operation, there exist some guidelines for you to follow after your hysteroscopy surgery. While your gynaecology specialist is the best person to tell you all these guidelines, I will tell you the basic ones. You need to avoid sex, alcohol, swimming and the use of tampons for at least the two weeks following your hysteroscopy surgery.
Apart from these, you need to ensure not to indulge in stressful situations like heavy driving and signing of any important legal document.
Side Effects
Effects from the sedatives like dizziness, little bleeding, gastric problems, cramps, and nausea are quite common after a hysteroscopy surgery. You might have some shoulder pain as well if carbon dioxide was used during the procedure.
Risks
You might suffer from infections like that of the chest. Don’t worry as such infections can easily be treated with the use of antibiotics. Physiotherapy can also prove useful in case of chest infection.
If excessive bleeding troubles you, a blood transfusion or a minor surgery will help fix that. If you are heavy in weight, or a smoker you might have to face troubles of the heart or lungs or maybe a wound infection as well. Clots in your legs with little pain or swelling is possible.
Apparently, slight damage to the cervix and nearby organs like the ovaries and bladder is also possible. But, that’s a rare case and thus, not something to worry about.
Conclusion
The best way to know what to expect from a hysteroscopy surgery is to ask an experienced and skilled gynaecologist. You should know all about hysteroscopy before the procedure begins and should take extreme care of preparation and precautions before the hysteroscopy surgery. Helping your gynaecologist understand all your medical conditions and the medications is also crucial.
With almost 25 years of experience, I, Dr Sheetal Agarwal have handled several hysteroscopy surgeries successfully. I would love to help you out. Centrally located in South Delhi, you wouldn’t face much of a problem visiting me if you stay in Delhi- NCR. Also, if money is something you are worried about, don’t be. Let us offer you the most competitive pricing for your sanity and health.
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