What happens during a hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is generally a simple procedure which is usually carried out as a day case procedure, meaning that you need not stay in hospital overnight.
Some hospitals offer an outpatient hysteroscopy service where the procedure is performed in a clinic setting without the need to have a general anaesthetic. You will usually be advised to take some pain killers an hour before the procedure. Sometimes a local anaesthetic or light sedation may be given.
Preparation for a hysteroscopy
Before a hysteroscopy, you may be advised to:
- have tests such as blood tests to make sure that there are no health issues that might prevent you from proceeding with the procedure. This is usually done in the week before the hysteroscopy
- have a vaginal swab taken to make sure there is no likelihood of infection
- use contraception as a hysteroscopy cannot be performed if you are pregnant. You may have a pregnancy test on the day you arrive for the procedure
- stop smoking – this will reduce the risks of complications from the anaesthetic
Anaesthetic
Although hysteroscopy is usually carried out under general anesthetic, modern hysteroscopes are very thin and allow for the procedure to be performed in an outpatient setting without anaesthetic.
Your doctor will discuss with you which type of procedure will be suitable for you. It is usually a quick procedure, lasting 10 to 30 minutes and does not involve any cut.
If general anaesthesia is used, you will be asleep throughout the procedure and will not feel anything. If it is performed as an outpatient procedure, most women do not feel much pain but may feel some discomfort, similar to period pain.
Taking painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol about an hour beforehand can help reduce this. Occasionally, local anaesthetic may be used to numb your cervix during the procedure.
The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists provides information through its website about the types of anaesthesia, how to prepare for an anaesthetic and what to expect afterwards.
Every patient is different and the anaesthetist will make changes as required to suit your needs.