Hysteroscopy in Germantown and Silver Spring, MD

What is a Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is used to examine the inside of the uterus to diagnose or treat problems.

During the procedure, a thin instrument with a lens and a light is used called a hysteroscope. The instrument is inserted through the vagina and allows very careful examination of the uterine cavity.

It is a very safe procedure and transmits the image of the uterus onto a screen.

The board-certified OBGYNs at Capital Women’s Care have extensive experience performing in-office procedures including hysteroscopy. Call (301) 681-3400 to request an appointment at our OBGYN office in Silver Spring or Germantown today.

When is a Hysteroscopy Needed?

Hysteroscopy can be used for many reasons, as it gives a thorough look inside the uterus. Most commonly, the procedure is used to determine the cause of abnormal bleeding. This may be if your periods are heavier or longer than normal or they are more or less frequent.

You may need hysteroscopy to:

  • Discover the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Look for growths in the uterus like fibroids, polyps, or cancer
  • Take a tissue sample
  • Remove scar tissue from infection or past surgery
  • Diagnose the cause of a miscarriage or infertility
  • Locate an intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Remove endometrial lining

How Do I Prepare for a Hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a very routine procedure many doctors perform regularly. It may takes place in your provider’s office or more often at the hospital or outpatient surgery center. The entire  procedure typically lasts about thirty minutes but may be longer depending on your specific condition.

Before your hysteroscopy , your doctor will answer any questions you may have. You also have a consultation with a preoperative to nurse to discuss the details of preparation for the procedure.

When scheduling your procedure, it is ideal to have hysteroscopy when not bleeding in order to optimally visualize the uterine cavity.  You may not have a hysteroscopy if there is a possibility of pregnancy  so be sure to communicate openly with your provider.

What Happens During a Hysteroscopy?

  • First, you will be given medication to help you relax or an anesthetic may be used to block the pain
  • Next, a speculum is gently placed into the vagina and the hysteroscope is advanced through the cervix.
  • Sterile water begins to flow through the hysteroscope to help separate the walls of the uterus
  • If there is a rare difficulty opening the cervix, it may need to be dilated with special instruments
  • Once inside the uterus, the uterine cavity is examined and  sampling of the cavity is done as indicated
  • At the close of the procedure the hysteroscope is removed and the speculum removed from the vagina
  • You are able to return home on the same day to rest

What Happens After a Hysteroscopy?

After hysteroscopy your provider will have more information and see the condition of the inside of your uterus. This allows for a better diagnosis and you may even receive treatment during the procedure.

Although the hysteroscopy is relatively painless, you may experience some mild bleeding, cramping, or watery discharge. Don’t hesitate to call your provider if your pain is not controlled with provided medications, you have excessive bleeding, foul discharge, or high fever.

Request a Hysteroscopy Consultation

If you still have questions or concerns regarding the process of a LEEP procedure, we encourage you to reach out to one of our board-certified specialists.

For appointments, patients can call (301) 681-3400, or simply submit a request online through our secure form.

Schedule Your Appointment