Uterine Evaluation
Hysteroscopy is a telescope-like instrument with a camera on the end to assess your uterine cavity.
The hysteroscopy is passed through your vagina and cervix to examine the uterine cavity under direct visualization. It is an important fertility test especially if you experienced pregnancy loss or failed IVF treatment.
Unlike many fertility centers that use rigid hysteroscopy under anesthesia, we use a much thinner and flexible hysteroscope which is less invasive, has minimal discomfort, and does not require anesthesia for most women. It will take as few as 15-20 minutes and will be performed in the office.
If you would like to have the hysteroscopy performed under anesthesia, we can provide that service to you as well.
Do you need hysteroscopy evaluation?
Many women need hysteroscopy, especially if they:
– Can’t get pregnant and no reason could be identified (Unexplained infertility)
– Previous pregnancy loss or recurrent miscarriage
– Thin endometrial lining or light period flow
– Failed IVF treatment after embryo transfer
– Abnormal ultrasound findings that suspect endometrial polyp or fibroid
– Uterine structural abnormality (for instance, uterine septum)
What fertility issue can be treated by Hysteroscopy?
– Abnormal growth such as endometrial polyp or intra-uterine fibroids.
– Abnormal uterine structures such as uterine septum.
– Injury or adhesions from previous D&C, cesarean section or uterine surgeries.
– Residue products of conception from prior miscarriages.
– Chronic inflammation of the endometrium.
– Enable endometrial biopsy.
If you need treatment such as resection of endometrial polyp or fibroids or uterine septum, specific hysteroscopy instruments and anesthesia might be needed.
How does Hysteroscopy compare with SIS or HSG?
Hysteroscopy is the gold standard to evaluate the uterine cavity. The camera at the end of the scope can allow the doctor to directly visualize the uterine cavity and identify abnormalities. If uterine abnormalities are identified, treatment such as removal of endometrial polyp or fibroid could be performed by hysteroscopy at the same time of diagnosis. SIS or HSG can effectively diagnose large intra-uterine cavity abnormalities, however for small lesions or uterine scars, they are less effective than hysteroscopy. If abnormalities are identified by SIS or HSG, you will undergo hysteroscopy for treatment.
When can I have Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is typically performed in a window soon after menstrual period and before ovulation, usually on your cycle Day 5-12. This may be extended if you ovulate beyond day 14 of your cycle. If you have irregular menstrual cycles, we can provide you birth control pills to regulate your cycle and schedule the hysteroscopy.