When hysteroscopy is used

• 1

  Investigating abnormal uterine bleeding

  To identify the cause of heavy, irregular, or postmenopausal bleeding. Read more →

• 2

  Evaluating recurrent pregnancy loss or implantation failure

  To check for structural issues inside the uterus that might affect a pregnancy.

• 3

  Removing polyps or fibroids

  Certain growths inside the uterine cavity can be removed during the same procedure.

• 4

  Investigating infertility

  To examine the uterine cavity as part of a fertility evaluation, particularly before IVF.

• 5

  Removing adhesions (scar tissue)

  From prior surgery or infection, which can affect the uterine cavity's shape and function.

Diagnostic vs. operative hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy can be diagnostic — simply examining the uterine cavity to identify an issue — or operative, where the same procedure is used to treat what's found, such as removing a polyp or correcting a structural issue, often during the same visit.

Hysteroscopy vs. laparoscopy

These two procedures are sometimes confused, but they examine different areas. Hysteroscopy looks inside the uterine cavity itself, through the cervix. Laparoscopy examines the outside of the uterus and the surrounding pelvic organs — ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic cavity — through small incisions in the abdomen. Some evaluations use both procedures together for a complete picture.

The procedure, what to expect

Hysteroscopy is typically performed as a minimally invasive, often outpatient procedure. A thin scope is passed through the cervix into the uterus, allowing direct visualization on a screen. Depending on whether it's diagnostic or operative, and what's found, the procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to longer if treatment is performed at the same time. Some procedures can be done with minimal or no sedation; more involved procedures may require light sedation or anesthesia.

Recovery

Recovery from a diagnostic hysteroscopy is usually quick, often within a day. Operative hysteroscopy may involve a short recovery period with mild cramping or spotting, and specific aftercare guidance is provided based on what was done during the procedure.