Hysteroscopy and curettage
Hysteroscopy is a method of examining the uterus using a small
telescope called a hysteroscope. It may be carried out under local anaesthetic
in the out-patient clinic, or as a day-case procedure under general
anaesthetic. It takes about 20 minutes.
If you are awake, you will be asked to lie on your back with
your legs in supports. The hysteroscope is passed though the vagina
and cervix into the uterus. Gas or liquid is used to distend the uterus
slightly to make the examination easier.
A tissue sample or biopsy can be taken through some hysteroscopes.
Alternatively, an endometrial biopsy device can be used, or the lining
of the uterus can be scraped using an instrument called a curette (this
is commonly known as a D & C). The tissue sample is sent for analysis.
You may feel some discomfort similar to period pain for a few
hours after hysteroscopy. You may also have a small amount of bleeding
that lasts for 1-2 days.
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