There are many reasons for abnormal menstrual bleeding, including benign growths within or around the uterus, menopause, hormone imbalance, weight loss or gain, heavy exercise, stress, illness, or the use of drugs.
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Surgery
This procedure uses a hysteroscope which is a thin, telescope-like instrument that is inserted into the vagina. It is passed through the cervix and into the uterus, enabling your physician to look inside the uterus while instilling sterile fluid. Hysteroscopy may help the doctor find the cause of abnormal bleeding.
Although hysteroscopy is used to diagnose certain conditions, it may be used to correct them as well. If an abnormal condition is detected during a diagnostic hysteroscopy, an operative hysteroscopy can be performed at the same time and the need for a second procedure is avoided. Hysteroscopy is usually performed in the operating room under general anesthesia, and it may be used instead of "open" abdominal surgery.
To make the procedure easier, your doctor may dilate (open) your cervix before the procedure, often by giving medication that is inserted into the cervix, or special dilators may be used.
Recovery
You should be able to go home shortly after the procedure. If you were given general anesthesia, you may need to wait until its effects have worn off. It is normal to have some cramping or a little bloody discharge for a few days after the procedure. Your doctor may give you medication to help ease the pain. If you have a fever, chills, or heavy bleeding, call your doctor's office right away. Talk to you doctor about when you can get back to your normal activities at work or home. For most women, it is the next day.
