Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your healthcare provider to examine the inside of the uterus using a thin camera inserted through the cervix. Because the procedure is performed through the vagina and cervix, no abdominal incisions are required.
Hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including uterine polyps, certain fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, retained tissue, and uterine abnormalities. Additional procedures, such as polyp removal, fibroid removal, or endometrial ablation, may be performed during the same procedure when appropriate.
The resources below provide information about hysteroscopy, endometrial ablation, treatment of uterine polyps and fibroids, and what to expect before and after surgery.
A hysteroscopy uses a thin camera called a hysteroscope to examine the inside of the uterus. Small instruments can be passed through the hysteroscope to remove polyps, treat certain fibroids, obtain biopsies, or perform other procedures - all without making any abdominal incisions.
Hysteroscopy allows your healthcare provider to both evaluate and treat a variety of conditions inside the uterus. Depending on your diagnosis, hysteroscopy may be used to:
Evaluate abnormal uterine bleeding
Remove uterine polyps
Remove selected submucosal fibroids
Perform dilation and curettage (D&C)
Obtain an endometrial biopsy
Remove retained pregnancy tissue
Perform an endometrial ablation
Treat certain uterine abnormalities (such as a uterine septum)
Perform other minimally invasive procedures using specialized devices, such as the MyoSure® or Sonata® systems, when appropriate
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Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. It is intended for women who have completed childbearing and are looking for an alternative to hysterectomy. While many women experience significantly lighter periods, some continue to have menstrual bleeding, and the procedure does not provide contraception. Pregnancy after endometrial ablation is uncommon but can be dangerous, so effective birth control is still recommended.
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