Cyprus Hysteroscopy Procedure
What is Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to insert a special optical tube into the vagina to examine the uterine and the parts of tubes that open to the uterus. Hysteroscopy can be done for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. (Office Hysteroscopy / Operative Hysteroscopy)
Hysteroscopy procedure can be performed under either general anesthesia or local (epidural/peridural). During the procedure, cervix is enlarged and uterine is filled with water. Doctor inserts the optical device that is similar to a thin telescope into the uterine. Hysteroscopy enables entire inner structure of uterus to be reflected onto the screen clearly. As such, uterine and entrance part of tubes can be observed and treated.
Diagnosis of diseases and structural problems inside the uterus through hysteroscopy is named as diagnostic hysteroscopy. Removal of pathologies observed during procedure is named as surgical or operative hysteroscopy.
Under Which Conditions is Hysteroscopy Performed?
- Heavy and irregular menstrual periods
- Infertility (not being able to get pregnant)
- Recurrent miscarriages
- Suspected formation of adhesions inside the uterus (Asherman Syndrome)
- Monitoring growth similar to polyp or myoma inside the uterus through ultrasound
- Presence of spiral (intra-uterine device) that cannot be removed or that has been displaced inside the uterus
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Infertility investigation
- Myoma
- Polyp
- Intra-uterine adhesions
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Recurrent implantation failure
- Congenital uterine anomalies (Septum, Arcuate etc.)
- Removal of spiral
- Evaluation of cervical canal for diagnosis based on abnormal uterine x-ray
- Removal of lining of the uterus
How is Procedure Applied?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that is performed under light general anesthesia. It is not a painful procedure for the patient. During the procedure, first of all cervix is opened as large as the hysteroscopy device can pass. Then, the hysteroscopy device that is attached to the source of light is moved through the cervix and reaches the uterine. During the procedure, special fluids are administered into the uterine so that uterine walls are separated from one another and blood and mucus are ejected.
Myoma inside the uterus, intra-uterine abnormalities and adhesions, polyps and intra-uterine curtains and similar diseases can be diagnoses through diagnostic hysteroscopy. It is a very effective method used for diagnosis in infertility investigations, recurrent pregnancy loss and abnormal uterine bleeding.
As there are incisive and burning parts on the end of the system, diagnosed problems can be simultaneously treated. Moreover, extraction from uterine wall can be sent for pathological diagnosis.
When Should the Procedure Be Performed?
Hysteroscopy is an operative intervention that can be performed on the same date and it does not require hospitalization. It is generally recommended that it is performed 1 week after the menstrual period ends. Uterine can be viewed more clearly as bleeding ends and as it will be performed immediately after the end of menstrual period, it does not damage possible pregnancy. Post-operative discomfort and pains are felt slightly.
What Are the Risks of the Procedure?
Hysteroscopy requires expertise and experience as it does in every surgical and medical operation. Risks such as anesthesia-related adverse effects, damage to the uterus, scars in the cervix, heavy bleeding and infection may occur although the possibility is low.
What Needs to be Considered After Procedure?
Vaginal discharge and uterine contractions may occur after the procedure. This is normal. You can use the pain killers that will be prescribed by your doctor for relief of pain.
One must see a doctor immediately in case of very severe stomach pain, fever, discharge with foul odor and heavy bleeding.
Post-Procedure Sexual Intercourse
One should not be engaged in sexual intercourse for 1-2 days after the procedure. In patients with heavy spotting after the procedure, such period can be extended up to the following menstrual period.
Does Hysteroscopy Increase Success Rate in In Vitro Fertilization?
During IVF treatment, embryo must attach to the uterine wall so that conception can occur and couples can have a baby. Problems such as myoma, polyp and intra-uterine adhesion may prevent attachment of embryo (embryo implantation). Hysteroscopy is an effective and modern method used for diagnosis and treatment of such problems. As a result, hysteroscopy increases pregnancy rates and the success rate with regard to in vitro fertilization.
