Hysteroscopy

When you have symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, a hysteroscopy is often needed to determine the cause of the problem. Dr. Anna Le and the team at Annandale Ob-Gyn have extensive experience using hysteroscopy to diagnose and treat diverse uterine problems. Please don’t continue to suffer with symptoms. Call one of the offices in Annandale or Alexandria, Virginia, or book an appointment online to get help for uterine problems.

What is a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor at Annandale Ob-Gyn & Primary Care to view the inside of your uterus in order to:

  • Diagnose uterine conditions – Your doctor performs a hysteroscopy to examine and diagnose problems in your cervical canal and uterus. It may also be used to confirm the results of other tests.
  • Treat the problem – Surgical procedures can be performed during a hysteroscopy, or it may be done together with other procedures such as a minimally-invasive laparoscopy and dilation and curettage (D&C).

Some hysteroscopic procedures are done in comfort in the offices of Annandale Ob-Gyn & Primary Care. Dr. Le and the team proudly offer a variety of in-office diagnostic and surgical procedures so you can avoid the expense of hospitalization.

What gynecological conditions are diagnosed and treated with a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is commonly used to:

  • Diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Determine the cause of pelvic pain
  • Perform endometrial ablation to treat abnormal bleeding
  • Perform tubal sterilization
  • Perform a biopsy
  • Identify and remove abnormalities in the uterine cavity such as:
  • Polyps and fibroids
  • Adhesions
  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine septum
  • Gynecologic cancers

How is a hysteroscopy performed?

A hysteroscopy is performed using a long, thin camera — a hysteroscope — that’s fitted with a fiber optic light. Hysteroscopes come in different styles, such as rigid or flexible, as well as different diameters, so your doctor carefully chooses the right hysteroscope for your anatomy and needs.

After administering anesthesia and inserting a speculum, the hysteroscope is gently moved through your cervix and into your uterus. A harmless carbon dioxide gas or a fluid, such as salt water, are put through the hysteroscope into your uterus. This expands the uterus so your doctor can clearly see the inside lining.

After visually examining the lining of your uterus and the openings of your fallopian tubes, a biopsy can be taken and surgical procedures can be performed. Many different surgical tools have been developed that are easy to insert through channels in the hysteroscope, allowing your doctor to remove polyps, cut tissues, and perform other surgical procedures.

What should you expect after the procedure?

It’s normal to experience light vaginal bleeding and cramping for several days after a hysteroscopy. Whether you can get back to your daily routine or you need to restrict your activity depends on the surgery performed, so your doctor provides individualized care instructions. Please call your doctor immediately if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or develop a fever.