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Women and Children'sPatient Information

Hysteroscopy 

What is hysteroscopy?     Hysteroscopy is the examination of the insideof the womb (uterus) using a fine telescope.It is usually done as an outpatient procedure.

          Why is hysteroscopy performed?          It allows certain abnormalities inside thewomb to be seen. Not all women with theproblems listed below need to undergo theprocedure, but it can provide usefulinformation in the following circumstances:

Abnormal uterine bleeding, that is bleedingbetween periods, bleeding after themenopause or excessive bleeding.

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Prior to treatment such as endometrialresection or ablation.

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(Procedures for removing the inner lining ofthe uterus/womb.)

Where will the procedure take place?          The hysteroscopy will be performed in theGynaecology Day Suite, situated in theWomen's Unit at Blackpool TeachingHospitals NHS Foundation Trust. 

What will happen when I go for theinvestigation?        The doctor will ask you about your symptoms,including dates of any recent vaginalbleeding, and explain the procedure to you inorder to obtain your informed consent. Youwill be asked to undress sufficiently for theexamination, a loose skirt is particularlysuitable to wear. You are then helped on to aspecial examination couch.           A speculum, as used for smear tests, will beinserted into the vagina and the cervix (neckof the womb) identified. A fine telescope, thehysteroscope, is then passed through thecervix and into the womb. A small amount offluid is used to help open the way into thewomb. A camera attached to thehysteroscope allows the view inside thewomb to be seen on a television screen. If asmall polyp or fibroid is identified, the optionof proceeding to treatment in the outpatientsetting is usually offered at the time of yourappointment if practically possible.         After the hysteroscope is removed, a sampleof the lining of the womb may be takenusing a fine tube which is passed through thecervix (a pipelle biopsy).

Will it hurt?

Some women experience period type pain,which usually dissapears rapidly.  Paracetamol(2 tablets, maximum 8 tablets in 24 hours)will help the pain.

These tablets can be taken about an hourbefore your appointment time if you wish toreduce the chance of discomfort. If the cervixneeds to be dilated, local anaesthetic isinserted into the cervix beforehand, whichhelps reduce any pain. Gas and air is also anoption and is available. If at any stage youfeel that you cannot tolerate the procedurewe will stop. Alternative arrangements canbe made to have the procedure performedunder a general anaesthetic.

       Are their any associated risks with theprocedure?            There is small a risk of bleeding, and smallrisk of infection and rarely perforation of theuterus/womb.       When will I know the results of theprocedure?          The doctor/ specialist nurse will tell youimmediately what was seen and discuss thetreatment you may need. If a sample hasbeen taken (biopsy) and sent to thelaboratory, we will usually write to you withthe result. This takes about three weeks.

What will happen afterwards?

You will be able to go home, but you mayneed to rest for a while first (about 30minutes).  It is a good idea to bring someonewith you to take you home.  You may havesome vaginal spotting or bleeding for up toseven days. You will be given a sanitary padto wear.

Please bring your own if you prefer.  If youhave any problems after the procedure weadvise that you contact your GP.

       How long does it take?     The test only takes a few minutes but the visitmay take up to an hour altogether, includingtime spent talking to the doctor and resting.

Do I still need to attend if I am having aperiod?         It is difficult to do a test if you are having aperiod so sometimes it is best to change yourappointment. If you are bleeding on the dayof your appointment, please call the clinicand ask to speak to a member of staff.  

Useful contact details

Hospital Switchboard: 01253 300000

Patient Relations Department The Patient Relations Department offer impartial advice and deal with any concerns or complaints the Trust receives. You can contact them via:Tel: 01253 955589 email: patient.relations@bfwh.nhs.ukYou can also write to us at: Patient Relations Department, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool FY3 8NRFurther information is available on our website: www.bfwh.nhs.uk

References This leaflet is evidence based wherever the appropriate evidence is available, and represents an accumulation of expert opinion and professional interpretation.Details of the references used in writing this leaflet are available on request from: Policy Co-ordinator/Archivist 01253 953397

Approved by:Date of Publication:

Reference No:Author:

Review Date:  01/11/2018

Women’s Dept meeting

Lavinia Parkinsonlc00009602 - PL/741 V2

To change an appointment or to seek advice,please call01253 953883or01253 953879.

OR

alternatively, contact Gynaecology Day SuiteTel 01253 953995.  

16/11/2015