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A hysteroscopy is a medical procedure that allows us to directly view and examine the inside of the uterus using a hysteroscope, which is a thin, camera-equipped instrument. About the size of a pencil, this tool is connected to a video system for clear imaging. The procedure is often performed in our office, offering a convenient and cost-effective method for diagnosing uterine conditions. It is an essential tool in reproductive health, aiding in the detection of various uterine abnormalities.
The procedure can identify structural problems like fibroids (non-cancerous tumors), polyps (small growths on the uterine lining), and adhesions (scar tissue disrupting the uterus). It can also reveal abnormal uterine conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia (an abnormal thickening of the uterine lining), which may affect your menstrual cycle, fertility, or even raise concerns about cancer.
A hysteroscopy is commonly recommended for women who:
A hysteroscopy offers significant advantages, especially in understanding what’s going on inside your uterus. The key benefits include:
Overall, hysteroscopy is a versatile tool that helps in both understanding and treating conditions within the uterus efficiently and with minimal discomfort, making it an ideal option for women in Lynchburg seeking effective and less invasive solutions for uterine health.
Before the procedure, your doctor will thoroughly explain what to expect and address any questions or concerns you may have. During the procedure, a device may be used to help view the cervix properly, though a speculum is often unnecessary due to the small size of the hysteroscope. The hysteroscope, a slender, lighted tube, is carefully inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
Founded in 2018, the Center for Advanced Gynecology is committed to enhancing your well-being with expertise in a wide range of services, particularly in gynecological care and advanced surgical treatments when necessary.
Our team specializes in the non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and discomfort related to the vagina, vulva, and bladder. Since our establishment, we have recognized the need for comprehensive care in Lynchburg community and have expanded our practice to include routine gynecologic services, cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal care, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast health, contraceptive management, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
Most patients experience little discomfort during office hysteroscopy. Some may feel mild cramping, akin to menstrual cramps. We prioritize your comfort and provide various options to manage any discomfort. If you’re particularly concerned about pain, or have had previous experiences with more discomfort than expected, anesthesia options are available. We offer inhaled nitrous oxide for pain relief, though most patients find it unnecessary. Typically, patients rate the pain as a 3-4 out of 10 on the pain scale.
You’ll be comfortably positioned on the exam table with your feet in stirrups. A hysteroscope is gently inserted into the vagina, and saline fluid is used to expand the vaginal area, allowing your doctor to clearly view the cervix and uterus. The procedure is quick, usually lasting only a few minutes.
Recovery is typically immediate, with most patients able to return to their usual activities the same day.
Although a hysteroscopy is not a cancer screening test, it can reveal abnormal growths that may require additional testing, such as a biopsy, to rule out cancer.
It’s best to avoid scheduling the procedure during your menstrual period. The optimal time is usually the week following your period. Additional specific instructions will be provided during your pre-procedure consultation.