What happens in a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy uses a hysteroscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera on the end. The hysteroscope is inserted into your and carefully passed through your and into your uterus.

A saline solution or gas is then put through the hysteroscope to help expand your uterus. This helps the doctor to see the inside of your uterus better.

The camera on the end of the hysteroscope collects images of the inside of your uterus that the doctor can view on a screen. If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy can be taken using tools passed through the hysteroscope.

Many times, a hysteroscopy is done while you’re awake using local anesthetic. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful. In some situations, regional or general anesthetic may also be used.

While hysteroscopy is a very safe procedure, there are some risks to be aware of. These include:

your cervix or uterus being punctured during the procedure

too much fluid being used during the procedure

developing an infection afterward