What is hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a procedure that involves looking into the uterus with a device called a hysteroscope. This device is a camera, about as wide as a pencil, which allows your doctor to see the inside of the uterus without making any incisions on your abdomen. This procedure has revolutionised the way gynaecologists care for their patients, increasing accuracy of diagnosis and offering treatments with shorter recovery times.

Why do we do hysteroscopy?

Directly visualising the uterine cavity allows your doctor to diagnose and treat abnormalities that can cause many problems, including abnormal bleeding, pain, or infertility. This is an important tool for diagnosis of many pathologies including, cancers, uterine polyps, and fibroids. It can also be used for removal of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) which cannot be removed otherwise.

How is hysteroscopy performed?

Hysteroscopy can be performed with a patient awake in a doctor’s office or asleep in an operating theatre. The hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. During the procedure, fluid is instilled into the uterus to allow your doctor to inspect the cavity. Most patients will be able to go home on the day of the procedure, with no need for an overnight stay. Once anaesthesia has worn off, patients are able to resume their usual activities quickly and with minimal discomfort.

At Rovier Surgical Suites, we are equipped to do a variety of hysteroscopic procedures. We are proud to bring current and state of the art equipment and care to the gynaecologic population of Antigua and Barbuda. If you think you may need a hysteroscopy, have a discussion with your gynaecologist about whether this procedure is right for you.