The reasons for hysteroscopy can be many. Hysteroscopy is helpful in detecting malformations and bleeding disorders. Also, with the help of hysteroscopy, the uterine lining or growths can be removed. How the operation works, which forms there are and what you have to consider before and after the procedure, you can find out here.

Hysteroscopy – Definition

During the so-called hysteroscopy, the uterine cavity is mirrored. With the help of this procedure, examinations and minor interventions are performed in the uterus. In the beginning, the cervix is slightly widened and then a thin instrument is inserted through it. This procedure is relatively small and does not require any incisions. Ureteroscopy is therefore valued by many physicians. It also makes diagnosis and therapy possible in just one procedure.

Another instrument is inserted through the thin instrument used in the procedure. This allows for a more detailed examination of the uterus. In the following sections, you will learn about the reasons for a uterus endoscopy, how the examination is performed and what costs can be expected.

Reasons For A Uterus Endoscopy

There are several reasons to have this procedure done. Uteroscopies can be used to reliably diagnose and treat bleeding disorders, as well as changes in the uterus. Changes in the uterus include tumors, polyps, malformations, and fibroids. During endoscopy, the uterine lining or growths can be removed. Ureteroscopy can also be helpful in determining the causes of repeated miscarriages.

The Different Forms Of Uterus Endoscopy

There are two types of uterine endoscopy:

• Diagnostic hysteroscopy: It can be performed on an outpatient basis and a narrower hysteroscope is used. Smaller operations such as biopsies are possible during diagnostic hysteroscopy.
• Surgical hysteroscopy: This procedure uses a larger diameter hysteroscope and a continuous irrigation suction pump. With the help of this procedure polyps, myomas, dissections of a possible uterine septum can be removed. It is also possible to remove uterine mucosa with the surgical uterus endoscopy.

Uterus And Childbearing

Before the 20th week of pregnancy, approximately one to two percent of all women who wish to have children experience repeated miscarriages. An examination of the uterus helps to clarify the causes. The lining of the uterus suffers from scraping after the miscarriage. Therefore, it is possible that it is not well built up. In addition, the uterus is examined for malformations.

Repeated miscarriages can be a stressful and traumatic event for those affected. There are many reasons for miscarriages. If changes in the uterus play a role, it may be helpful to remove an obstructing partition, growths, or adhesions in the uterus. This may increase the chances of live birth. After several miscarriages, the diagnosis should take place in a specialized department. The experts there are specially trained for this sensitive topic.

Procedure Of A Uterus Endoscopy

During the examination, a so-called hysteroscope is used. A camera lens is attached to the end of the rigid, thin tube. This instrument is inserted into the uterine cavity through the vagina and the cervix. In order to better assess the wall of the uterus, it is inflated with fluid and gas. This causes the mucous membrane to unfold. Other gynecologic instruments, such as forceps or curettes, are inserted during the surgical uterine endoscopy.

Who Is Not Suitable For Uterus Endoscopy?

If there is a possible pregnancy, endometrial endoscopy is not recommended. If there is cervical carcinoma or suspected uterine cancer, this procedure is also usually not performed. In this case, it is advisable to remove the uterus. Infections in the area of the cervix or uterine mucosa must have cleared up before endoscopy can be performed. If women still want to have children, removal of the endometrium must not be performed either.

Before The Procedure

On the day of the uterine endoscopy, you should have an empty stomach. You should not eat, drink or smoke for 6 hours before the procedure. If you need to take medication, you can discuss this with your doctor in advance. You can then take your medication as usual with a little water. To ensure that the mucous membrane is not too thick during the procedure, many patients are given hormonal pre-treatment.

After The Operation

After a hysterectomy, you will remain under observation in the hospital for a few hours. The anesthesia wears off relatively quickly, but it may take a while before you can think completely clearly again. Arrange for someone to pick you up after the procedure and take you home, or arrange for a cab. Driving a car or using public transport alone is too risky at this stage.

Once home, bed rest is recommended. Get some rest. On the day of the operation, however, it is also a good idea to take your first steps. This will stimulate circulation. If you live alone, it is best to ask a family member or friend to take care of you for up to 24 hours after the procedure. If this cannot be guaranteed, outpatient surgery is not suitable.

The recovery period after ureteroscopy is short and painless. Nevertheless, you may experience side effects in the period after the procedure, which are explained in the following section.

Pain And Side Effects Of Hysteroscopy

In the period after the examination, side effects such as brownish discharge may occur:

• Pain in the area of the cervix and pain or pulling in the lower abdomen. Many women compare the intensity of the pain to “stronger menstrual cramps”.
• Bleeding may occur for up to a few days after the procedure.
• Injury to the uterine wall by the hysteroscope is very rare. In most cases, this does not require further treatment. If the uterine wall is breached, surgical treatment is performed.
• Infections of the female genital organs are also very rare. However, if they do occur, they are treated with antibiotics.
• Brownish discharge and temporary menstrual disorders are also possible. However, these do not require treatment.

Where Are Hysteroscopies Performed?

A hysteroscopy is performed in hospitals with a gynecology department or by gynecology specialists in private practice. In the latter, however, uterine endoscopy is only paid for by special insurance carriers. Those who choose to go to the hospital also need a referral.

Costs Of A Uterus Endoscopy

If a uterus endoscopy is performed for medical reasons, such as a miscarriage or fibroids, the health insurance usually covers the costs. In the context of fertility treatment, the insurance company may cover the costs. However, this is not always necessarily the case. It is best to discuss the coverage of costs with your doctor.

Hysterectomy – Removal Of The Uterus

If a hysterectomy or other treatments do not help enough, all or part of the uterus may be removed. If there is cancer of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, the uterus must be removed to eliminate the tumor. Below you will find an overview of the most common reasons for removing a uterus:

• Myomas: Benign growths on the uterus. Most are small and are not noticeable. In some cases, however, fibroids can cause severe menstrual pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms.
• Vaginal and or uterine prolapse: A slight prolapse of the uterus often causes no discomfort at all. However, if the organs sag more, many problems can occur. There is a feeling that something is pushing down and there is a foreign body sensation in the lower abdomen. There may also be frequent urination and lower abdominal pain, as well as pain during sexual intercourse.
• Very heavy and painful menstrual bleeding.
• Endometriosis: a common abdominal condition in women that causes severe pain and reduces fertility.
• Cancers of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries: In these cases, it is inevitable to remove the uterus.

Removing a uterus is only necessary immediately in rare cases. In case of unstoppable bleeding during childbirth, severe injuries, or injections, immediate removal may be necessary to avoid serious complications.