When is Hysteroscopy Needed?

Infertility treatments require precise diagnosis and effective intervention, and hysteroscopy is a key procedure in preparing the uterus for embryo implantation. This minimally invasive technique enables doctors to identify and address various uterine issues that may hinder pregnancy. Using a thin, camera-equipped instrument, doctors can directly view and examine the inside of the uterus and, if necessary, correct any problems.

In Iran, hysteroscopy is performed to the highest medical standards, helping infertile couples on their journey to parenthood. In this article, you will learn more about hysteroscopy, its benefits, and how the procedure is carried out. Join us to gain valuable knowledge as you prepare for treatment.

What is a hysteroscopy?

 Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a gynecologist to diagnose and treat issues related to the uterus. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a hysteroscope a thin tube equipped with a light and camera through the vagina and into the uterus. This tool allows the doctor to examine the interior of the uterus and, if any abnormalities are detected, to take a sample for further analysis. Hysteroscopy can be utilized for both diagnostic purposes and treatment. Watch the animation below to understand how the hysteroscopy procedure is performed.

• Diagnostic Hysteroscopy

  Hysteroscopy is a procedure used to diagnose various uterine issues, including fibroids, uterine polyps, abnormal thickening of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), blocked fallopian tubes, and uterine adhesions. It also assists doctors in investigating the underlying causes of recurrent miscarriages and fertility problems.

• Therapeutic Hysteroscopy

  Therapeutic hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can correct uterine abnormalities. Your doctor may recommend this procedure to remove uterine adhesions that can affect fertility. Additionally, it can be used to remove fibroids or other masses in the uterus.

If a uterine issue is detected during a diagnostic hysteroscopy, the doctor can also perform a therapeutic hysteroscopy in the same session, eliminating the need for a separate surgery to address the identified problem. Learn more about the Hysteroscopy process: What is Hysteroscopy?

What is hysteroscopy used for?

Hysteroscopy is used to diagnose and treat various uterine problems. It has a wide range of uses, including:

1. Diagnosing the Causes of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Hysteroscopy is an essential procedure for investigating abnormal uterine bleeding. It allows doctors to directly visualize the inside of the uterus and identify the underlying cause of the bleeding. Abnormal bleeding can arise from various factors, and accurately diagnosing the cause is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. The potential causes include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Noncancerous growths, such as polyps and fibroids
• Cancers of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, or vagina
• Infections and inflammation of the uterus
• Certain medications, including birth control pills

2.  Diagnosis and Treatment of Uterine Abnormalities

 Uterine abnormalities, such as polyps and fibroids, can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health and may lead to infertility issues. Hysteroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing these conditions, and it also allows for their removal and treatment. Another type of abnormality that some women may experience is uterine adhesions. These are areas of scar tissue inside the uterus, often caused by infection or previous surgeries, and they can increase the risk of infertility. Hysteroscopy is effective for both diagnosing and treating uterine adhesions. Removing these adhesions can enhance uterine function and improve the likelihood of conception. Early diagnosis and treatment of uterine abnormalities offer several benefits, the most significant of which include alleviating bothersome symptoms, preventing disease progression, and enhancing fertility. Timely intervention can help avert more serious complications and improve overall quality of life.

Uterine adhesions are another condition that some women experience. This condition refers to the presence of scar tissue inside the uterus, often caused by infection or surgery, and can increase the risk of infertility. Hysteroscopy is a useful procedure for diagnosing and treating uterine adhesions. Removing these adhesions can help improve uterine function and increase the chances of fertility. Early diagnosis and treatment of uterine abnormalities have several benefits, including reducing bothersome symptoms, preventing disease progression, and improving fertility. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and improve quality of life.

3. Investigating the Causes of Infertility

Infertility can stem from a variety of causes, and identifying the specific reason is essential for determining the most effective treatment. Hysteroscopy is a valuable procedure for examining the condition of the uterus and diagnosing issues that may hinder pregnancy. Research indicates that addressing these problems can positively impact infertility treatment and enhance the likelihood of conception.

4. Investigating the cause of recurrent miscarriages

Recurrent miscarriages occur for a variety of reasons, including structural abnormalities of the uterus, uterine adhesions, hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, and infection. Hysteroscopy helps the doctor identify and correct these problems. This intervention prepares the uterine environment for future pregnancies and increases the chances of getting pregnant.

5. Pre-IVF Evaluation

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an advanced treatment for infertility in which eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus. The success of this method depends on several factors, with one of the most important being the health and readiness of the uterus to accept the embryo.

Pre-IVF hysteroscopy is a procedure that helps identify and treat any abnormalities that may prevent the embryo from implanting. By using this method, doctors can prepare the uterus to increase the likelihood of a successful IVF outcome. If no uterine problems are detected during initial examinations and ultrasounds, a hysteroscopy may not be necessary for the first attempts at IVF. Typically, doctors recommend it after a few unsuccessful IVF attempts to investigate the underlying causes of IVF failure.

What are the benefits of hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can help increase the chances of successful infertility treatment. The most important benefits of this procedure include:

• Accurate diagnosis of uterine problems

  Hysteroscopy allows direct observation of the inside of the uterus, allowing the doctor to identify any abnormalities with great accuracy.

• Simultaneous treatment of uterine problems

  Unlike many purely diagnostic methods, hysteroscopy can diagnose and treat many problems in one session.

• Short Recovery Period

  Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed through the vagina, eliminating the need for incisions. This approach reduces the risk of damage to surrounding tissues. Patients typically do not require hospitalization after the procedure and can quickly return to their daily activities.

• Reduced Need for Complex Treatment Methods

  Infertility can sometimes be caused by straightforward issues that hysteroscopy can address. This method may decrease the necessity for more complex or expensive treatments. In Iran, hysteroscopy is regarded as an affordable and effective option for couples, given the reasonable costs of medical services.

• Improving the chances of successful IVF

  Performing a hysteroscopy before IVF in some cases helps to better prepare the uterus and increases the chances of successful implantation. Learn more about preparation before IVF: How to Prepare Your Body for IVF

Frequently Asked Questions and Concerns About Hysteroscopy

In this section, we answer common questions about what to expect from a hysteroscopy and its possible complications to clear up any confusion and prepare you for it.

1. How is a hysteroscopy performed?

Hysteroscopy is performed under either local or general anesthesia. During the procedure, the doctor uses a device called a speculum—similar to what you might experience during a Pap smear—to hold the vagina open. A hysteroscope is then gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus. To separate the walls of the uterus and allow for a clear view of its interior, a gas or liquid is injected into the uterus.

Next, a hysteroscope (a thin tube with a light and camera) is slowly moved into the uterus so that the doctor can see images of the uterus on a monitor and evaluate the structures inside. If the hysteroscopy is being performed to treat problems such as polyps or fibroids, the doctor inserts special instruments through the hysteroscope and uses them to remove abnormal tissue.

The duration of a hysteroscopy varies based on its type. A diagnostic hysteroscopy typically takes less time compared to a therapeutic hysteroscopy, which may also be performed alongside other surgical procedures. Generally, a hysteroscopy lasts less than an hour.

2. Is hysteroscopy painful?

 Hysteroscopy is performed under anesthesia, so the procedure itself does not cause any pain. However, it is common to experience some mild discomfort afterwards. This pain is typically tolerable for most people. If needed, you can take painkillers, but be sure to consult your doctor first.

3. What are the potential risks and complications?

After a hysteroscopy, you may experience some bleeding or mild cramping for a few days, which is normal. It’s also common to feel gassy for up to 24 hours. Occasionally, you might encounter symptoms like stomach pain, dizziness, or mild nausea, but these are generally not a cause for concern. If needed, your doctor can prescribe medication to help alleviate these symptoms.

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive and safe procedure that typically does not cause significant problems. However, like any other treatment, it may be associated with rare complications in less than 1% of cases.

• Reaction to anesthesia
• Infection
• Excessive bleeding
• Damage or rupture of the cervix
• Damage to nearby organs such as the bladder, bowel, or ovaries
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

If you experience symptoms such as fever, sever stomach pain, or heavy vaginal bleeding following a hysteroscopy, contact your doctor immediately so that you can receive the necessary treatment.

4. How long does recovery take?

The duration of recovery depends on the specifics of the procedure, particularly if it is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Typically, there is no need for a hospital stay after a hysteroscopy, and most women can return to their daily activities the following day. Some individuals even go back to work on the same day. However, if you have received anesthesia, it’s advisable to rest for a few days. Ultimately, following your doctor’s recommendations and paying attention to your body’s needs will help expedite the recovery process.

5. How to Prepare for a Hysteroscopy?

 Here are the steps to prepare for a hysteroscopy:

Consultation with Your Doctor:

• Schedule a consultation with your doctor, who will evaluate your health to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
• Examination: During the appointment, your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may perform an ultrasound to determine which tests are necessary before your hysteroscopy. Depending on your condition, you might need blood tests or other diagnostic procedures.
• Review of Medications and Supplements:

 Provide your doctor with a comprehensive list of all medications and dietary supplements you are currently taking. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or warfarin, ahead of the procedure.

• Review of Allergies:

 Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, including those to latex, medications, food, or other substances. Following these steps will help ensure that you are well-prepared for your hysteroscopy.

• Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking fluids after midnight and arrive at the clinic on an empty stomach on the day of surgery.
• No vaginal ointments or creams: Stop using these products 24 hours before surgery.
• No jewelry: Enter the operating room without makeup, nail polish, or jewelry.

Necessary care after hysteroscopy

Usually, you can be discharged from the hospital shortly after hysteroscopy and resume your normal diet. However, it is better to have someone else accompany you and take you to your accommodation due to the use of anesthetics.

You may have uterine contractions, spotting, and bleeding for a few days after hysteroscopy, which is not a cause for concern. If there is severe bleeding and pain, you need to inform your doctor.

Avoid sexual intercourse for at least 2 weeks after hysteroscopy to reduce the risk of infection. You must also avoid going to the pool or sitting in the bathtub. Do not worry about this period; your doctor will provide all the necessary advice before discharge to make this stage go as smoothly as possible.

Hysteroscopy Procedure in Iran

 Specialized hysteroscopy in Iran is conducted under the supervision of experienced doctors and utilizes advanced technology. The top clinics in Iran are committed to creating an ideal environment for patients by offering high-quality services, ensuring that the treatment process is carried out with confidence and peace of mind. These services include:

• Initial consultation and evaluation by specialists
• Estimation of treatment costs
• Determining the time to visit the medical center according to the patient’s condition
• Providing necessary guidance for preparation before hysteroscopy
• Hysteroscopy performed by a specialist doctor and modern equipment
• Post-hysteroscopy care and essential recommendations for the recovery period
• Many couples who travel to Iran for infertility treatment return to their country with a good experience and successful results. The success stories of patients who have been able to expand their families after treatment are a testament to the high quality of medical services in Iran. The positive experiences of these people can be promising for couples who are at the beginning of the treatment path.
• You can contact us for more information about hysteroscopy in Iran and receive advice from specialist doctors.

Summary of the Hysteroscopy procedure

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for diagnosing and treating uterine problems and plays an important role in increasing the chances of pregnancy. The benefits of hysteroscopy include accurate diagnosis of uterine disorders, a short recovery period, and reduced need for complex treatments.

Iran has provided ideal conditions for the treatment of infertile couples due to its use of specialist doctors and provision of advanced treatments at affordable costs. In addition to the high quality of medical services, careful consultation and support from the medical staff are other advantages of choosing this country as a treatment destination.

If you need guidance for infertility treatment in Iran, you can contact us for consultation and start the treatment process, and ask your questions. We are by your side to complete this path.

References:
What Is a Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy

What is the purpose of a hysteroscopy?