Hysteroscopy is a diagnostic methodology used on women who suspect that they are infertile. The procedure is minimally invasive and only requires between two and five minutes to complete. Recovery time may be as little as 30 minutes or up to eight hours if no anesthesia is used. With anesthesia, the procedure may require women being out of work until the next morning.

Dr. Sherry Thomas, Urogynecologist and surgeon, offers hysteroscopy procedures for a variety of reasons. This technology allows Dr. Sherry to get a closer look inside the uterus to determine what, if any, issues are present. If you’re struggling with conception and think the cause might be infertility, contact Dr. Sherry Thomas’s office in Agoura Hills, CA, today.

The diagnostic test is designed to determine if scar tissue is the cause of infertility or to determine if the fallopian tubes are blocked. This tool can also be used to check for endometrial cancers, remove small fibroids or polyps, to stop bleeding, and to remove problem areas in the lining of the uterus. Here some of the other benefits of a hysteroscopy:

Allows a Doctor to look at the Lining of Your Uterus

With a hysteroscope, a physician – like Dr. Sherry – can view the lining of your uterus. The tool is inserted into the vagina and moved through the cervix. Then, it’s moved into the uterus. When a light and camera are hooked to the hysteroscope, the lining of the uterus can easily be seen.

Can Help Find the Cause of Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding may be a sign that something may be wrong with the female anatomy. A hysteroscopy may be used to determine the cause of abnormal bleeding, which may be a sign of menopause. The tool can be used to remove growths from the uterus, as fibroids and polyps are the primary culprits in infertility.

Aids in Performing a Tissue Biopsy

A hysteroscopy may be used to take a small sample of tissue that may be examined under the microscope for problems. If infertility is a problem, laparoscopy may be used to eliminate the fertility problem.

Detects Abnormalities

Abnormalities in the endometrial cavity can often be responsible for infertility problems. They may also lead to recurrent miscarriage. A hysteroscopy combined with an ultrasound or a hysterosalpingogram may be effective in diagnosing abnormalities related to infertility.

Be Aware of Complications and Consult with a Physician

You should be aware of any complications that may be related to this diagnostic procedure. Common complications include infection, vaginal bleeding, fluid overload, and uterine perforation. Most women do not experience any complications or side effects. Only mild cramping will occur for 30 minutes and as long as eight hours for most women. Most women do not even require any anesthesia at all. If anesthesia is required, it means that a scope diameter of fewer than five millimeters is required.