Hysteroscopy: looking inside the uterus
A hysteroscopy passes a thin camera through the cervix to look inside the uterus. The procedure can find, and often treat at the same time, problems such as polyps, some fibroids, scar tissue or a uterine septum that may affect implantation.
- Time
- 10–30 minutes
- Anaesthesia
- None, local, or short general
- Cuts
- None
- Recovery
- Usually same day
What is Hysteroscopy?
The inside of the uterus, the cavity, is where an embryo implants. Problems such as polyps, fibroids bulging into the cavity, a septum (a band of tissue dividing the uterus) or scar tissue (Asherman syndrome) can interfere with implantation or cause miscarriage.
A hysteroscopy lets the doctor see these directly and, in many cases, remove them in the same procedure. It can be done as a short outpatient procedure or under anaesthesia, depending on what needs to be done.
Who Hysteroscopy may help
- A scan or HSG showing a possible polyp, fibroid, septum or scarring
- Abnormal bleeding
- Before IVF in selected cases
- Some cases of repeated implantation failure
Good to know. Routine hysteroscopy before a first IVF cycle, when scans are normal, has not been shown to increase live births.
How to prepare
- The procedure is usually booked just after your period ends.
- You may be asked to take pain relief an hour before.
- If anaesthesia is used, fast as instructed and arrange for someone to take you home.
- Tell the doctor if there is any chance you could be pregnant.
The hysteroscopy procedure, step by step
Preparation
Usually done just after a period. You may be given pain relief beforehand.
Camera inserted
A thin hysteroscope is passed through the cervix; fluid gently expands the uterus.
Look and treat
Polyps, septum or adhesions can be removed with fine instruments.
Recovery
Most people go home within a few hours.
What to expect
- Cramping and light bleeding for a few days are common.
- Most return to normal activities within a day or two.
Recovery and aftercare
- Cramping and light bleeding are common for a few days.
- Use pads, not tampons, until bleeding stops.
- Avoid intercourse for a few days or as advised.
- Seek help for heavy bleeding, fever or worsening pain.
Benefits, limitations and risks
Benefits
- Direct view of the uterine cavity
- Diagnosis and treatment in one procedure
- No cuts on the abdomen
Limitations
- No proven benefit when the uterus is normal on scan
- Small risks of infection, bleeding or perforation
Risks and side effects
- Infection, bleeding, or rarely a small tear in the uterus wall.
- Fluid-related complications are rare.
What affects success
Removing a significant polyp, septum or scarring can improve the chance of pregnancy. For people with a normal uterus, the benefit is not proven.
Alternatives to discuss
What affects the cost of Hysteroscopy in Bangalore
- Office or theatre procedure
- Anaesthesia
- Any treatment done during the procedure
Before you start, ask for a written, itemised estimate that lists what is included and what could cost extra, such as medicines, freezing, storage and add-ons. Prices vary widely between clinics and cities. Estimate your costs with our calculator.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What did the scan show that makes hysteroscopy necessary?
- Will you treat anything found during the same procedure?
- What anaesthesia will I have?
Frequently asked questions
What is hysteroscopic polypectomy?
Removal of a polyp from inside the uterus during a hysteroscopy, using fine instruments passed through the hysteroscope. It is usually a short day procedure.
Is hysteroscopy painful?
Office hysteroscopy can cause cramps; pain relief or anaesthesia is offered. Many people find it quick and manageable.
How soon can we try to conceive after hysteroscopy?
Often from the next cycle, but follow your doctor's advice, especially after removal of a septum or scarring.
Should everyone have a hysteroscopy before IVF?
No. Large trials found no benefit from routine hysteroscopy when the uterus looks normal on scan.
Will I have my period normally after hysteroscopy?
Yes, your cycle usually continues normally.
Can hysteroscopy remove fibroids?
It can remove fibroids that bulge into the cavity. Fibroids within the wall or outside the uterus need other approaches.
Not sure if Hysteroscopy is right for you?
See a fertility doctor at an IVF Pulse centre in Bangalore: Kalyan Nagar (HRBR Layout), RR Nagar and Rajajinagar (at Tamara Hospital). Nothing to pay when you book, and you can change the time on WhatsApp.
