Hysteroscopy Procedure
Who is it for?
A hysteroscopy is usually recommended for women who are experiencing certain gynaecological symptoms such as:
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Bleeding between periods or post-menopausal bleeding
- Fibroids
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Repeated miscarriages
- Problems with fertility
- To insert or remove coils
What happens during a hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy can be performed as an outpatient procedure or as a day case procedure under a general anaesthetic.
A fine telescope is inserted via the vagina and opening of the uterus (cervix), and using water the telescope passes through the birth canal and into the womb. The inside of the womb can then be seen and assessed in terms of its shape, the lining (endometrium) and for focal lesions (polyps, fibroids, septa, adhesions). A small biopsy (removal of cells from the endometrium – lining of the womb) is often done at the end of the procedure to allow further analysis under a microscope.
If the procedure is being performed in an outpatient setting, women will be asked to remove the bottom half of their clothing and lie on a couch with their legs in leg supports. A speculum may be placed inside the vagina, similar to what happens in a cervical smear. If they wish, women can watch the procedure on a screen. The procedure is likely to last about 20 minutes but will vary from patient to patient. Women can bring a friend or partner with them if they wish.
We advise 30 minutes prior to the procedure take a painkillers (such as paracetamol 1g or ibuprofen 400mg).
Bring someone with you, even if you prefer to be alone during the procedure it’s helpful to have someone to take you home.
You may experience period like cramps and some bleeding (like a light period)
A self pay outpatient hysteroscopy package includes the following:
- A consultation with a Consultant Gynaecologist
- Hysteroscopy procedure (on a separate day to the consultation)
- Biopsy and histology
- Detailed written report emailed or posted to you and your GP
- Follow up consultation, usually by telephone
- Direct access for any urgent health concerns
The following may also need to be added at an additional cost:
- Ultrasound scan
- Insertion of IUD
- Additional histology charges may be required for larger samples
Please note that this package is only available at our clinic located at The Portland Hospital.
Please note that fees are subject to change, and part of the fees (the hospital charges) will be invoiced by the hospital directly.
Pricing
Includes hospital, surgical, anaesthetist and histology fees and post-procedure follow-up consultation.