Hysteroscopy/D&C Overview

Hysteroscopy is the use of a small camera through the cervical opening to visualize the lining of the uterus. There are no incisions. Risks are minimal but include:

• bleeding
• infection
• uterine perforation that may require laparoscopy
• anesthetic risks

This surgery is usually performed to evaluate abnormal bleeding during a woman’s lifespan. Most often a D&C is performed in conjunction. This involves sampling the lining of the uterus so that it can be evaluated under a microscope to rule out pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions.

Fibroids that protrude into the uterine lining can also be removed with a hysteroscope. However, fibroids not protruding into the uterine lining cannot be removed this way.

It is very uncommon to experience any significant pain after this procedure and you may return to your normal activities the day following surgery. However, I do ask that you refrain from sexual intercourse for 2 weeks to prevent uterine infection.