Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is an exploratory procedure undertaken to determine whether more invasive surgery is necessary.
What is a hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is performed using a hysteroscope, which is a thin tube inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix and uterus. The procedure is undertaken either as a diagnostic or operative procedure. The first is to allow a diagnosis of problems within the uterus. Secondly, a hysteroscopy is performed to correct an abnormal condition in the uterus. However, both types of hysteroscopy are to determine the existence of polyps and if a polypectomy is needed.
Hysteroscopy Recovery
As with any surgery, there is the possibility of complications and ways to recovery correctly.
Pain
You may experience mild cramping pain in the lower part of the abdomen and in your womb. Mild pain is acceptable as long as it is improving every day. Please take simple pain relief on a regular basis. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packet and never exceed the recommended dosage.
- Back pain after hysteroscopy can be due to positioning at the time of surgery. A gentle massage, a warm shower or a heat pack can help.
- Pain in the calf muscles should be taken seriously as it can be an early sign of blood clot formation in the legs, especially if it is associated with swelling of one calf including tenderness and redness. Contact us immediately and we may organise an ultrasound to diagnose the condition.
Vaginal Discharge / Bleeding
Some bleeding after polypectomy, alongside pain, may follow operative hysteroscopy. Mild bloody discharge is expected as long as it is odourless and is not associated with severe pain and heavy blood clots and flooding.
Mobilisation
Early gentle mobilisations after surgery are recommended. These can accelerate the healing process, reduce blood clot formation in the leg and deter infection in the lungs. Try to continue your activity every day. Walking is ideal but listen to your body and be aware of your limits.
Swimming
Swimming and having a bath is not recommended for 10 days. Shower as normal.
Driving
Arrange lifts before and after surgery and do not drive for approximately 48 hours after surgery. Also check with your insurance company as they may specify a longer exclusion time before driving surgery. Please make sure you pay attention to the following steps for the most the effective result.
- Before you resume normal driving practices, trial sitting in the car and the start-up routine without starting the car. Remember you need to do things quickly within a car. If no pain is experienced, then you are suitable to commence driving.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
In addition, pelvic floor exercise and vaginal estrogen (vagifem pessary / ovestin cream) can be used after the surgery.
FBW contact number during office hours is 08 8297 2822. After hours, please contact Ashford Emergency. A visit to Ashford Emergency will be free of charge if it is within one month of your surgery and your surgery was performed at Ashford Hospital. In case of absence there will always be another surgeon who will be covering FBW. Remember we don’t mind too many phone calls, but we do mind inadequate communication while recovering.