A hysteroscopy is a minimally-invasive examination of the uterus done using a camera inserted via the vagina. It is commonly used to diagnose uterine abnormalities, including tumors, fibroids, polyps, and cervical dysplasia. It also can be used to assess for ovarian cancer and endometriosis.
You can go for a san diego hysteroscopy for the diagnosis of ovarian and endometrial evaluation. Hysteroscopy is performed using a thin tube with a camera attached at the end, known as a hysteroscope, inserted into the vagina. The hysteroscope is then guided through the cervix, into the uterus and fallopian tubes. It can also be used to perform biopsies or remove polyps during the procedure.
Here are the main reasons why you should consider hysteroscopy.
- You are having heavier than normal menstrual periods or bleeding between periods
If you are having heavy menstrual bleeding or your periods are lasting longer than usual, then you may have uterine fibroids. Fibroids can cause pain, pelvic pressure, backaches, and sometimes even an inability to have children. A hysteroscopy can be used to determine if fibroids are present and their size, which can help guide any treatment needed.
- You are bleeding after menopause
A hysteroscopy is useful to diagnose and treat post-menopausal bleeding. Bleeding after menopause may be due to uterine or vaginal cancer but it also may be related to other causes, such as endometrial hyperplasia, polyps, or fibroids. A hysteroscopy done at this time can reveal any abnormalities that could cause bleeding and lead to treatment options.
- You are having trouble getting or staying pregnant
A hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose problems in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. The procedure is most commonly done to evaluate the endometrium when unexplained infertility occurs. A hysteroscopy may also be done to evaluate the full reproductive system as a yearly screening to assess for changes that could indicate problems, such as cancer or pre-cancerous changes.
- You want a permanent form of birth control
Hysteroscopy can be used to perform a number of different sterilization procedures, including Essure, Adiana, or Tubal Ligation. These techniques are used to permanently prevent unwanted pregnancy by blocking the fallopian tubes. A hysteroscopy also can be performed on a pregnant woman using the same procedures to block the cervix to prevent an ectopic pregnancy.
- You want to remove an IUD
IUDs can become stuck in the uterus and require removal. A hysteroscopy is useful to safely remove it without causing any damage to the surrounding tissue.
