# Hysteroscopy Explained: A Look Inside the Uterus

Hysteroscopy uses a thin telescope, passed through the cervix, to see the inside of the uterus on a screen. No cut is made on the abdomen. Doctors use it both to diagnose problems and, in many cases, to treat them in the same sitting.

# When it may be suggested

Common reasons include heavy or irregular bleeding, bleeding after menopause, difficulty conceiving, repeated miscarriage, or a scan that suggests a polyp, fibroid inside the cavity, adhesion, or a uterine septum. A sample of the lining (biopsy) can be taken while the cavity is in view.

# What the procedure feels like

Some hysteroscopies are done in a clinic with local anaesthesia or pain relief; others are planned in an operating theatre with sedation or general anaesthesia, especially if a larger polyp or fibroid is being removed. You may feel cramping similar to period pain. Spotting for a day or two afterwards is common. Your doctor should explain warning signs such as fever, increasing pain or heavy bleeding, and when you can return to work or exercise.

Hysteroscopy is different from laparoscopy, which looks at the outside of the uterus, ovaries and pelvis through small cuts in the abdomen. Sometimes both are planned together.

# A surgeon who lists this service

Dr. Tejashree Bakre is a Gynecologist & obstetrician in Mulund West, Mumbai and laparoscopic surgeon. Her website specifically describes hysteroscopic fertility surgery, as well as infertility care and other gynaecological procedures. She has more than 14 years of experience listed, with MBBS from GMC Akola, MS from KEM Hospital, Mumbai, DNB, a fellowship in laparoscopy at Galaxy Hospital, Pune, and MRCOG (London, UK).

Consultations are offered at Maple Polyclinic, Rohini Residency, MG Road, Mulund West, and at Vedant Hospital, Jangal Mangal Road, Bhandup West. The contact number is 70455 63438.

You should also ask what you may eat or drink beforehand and whether someone should accompany you home.

Ask, before you agree to a date, whether the plan is only to look or also to treat what is found, and what that means for recovery time.

This article is general information and not medical advice. It does not replace an examination by a qualified doctor. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or call 112. Details about Dr. Tejashree Bakre were taken from drtejashreebakre.com; please check the website for current clinic hours and services.