Hysteroscopy is a procedure commonly used by gynecologists to examine the inside of the uterus. It involves the use of a slender telescope-like instrument called a hysteroscope, which has a light and a camera at its tip. The hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus, eliminating the need for surgical incisions. The camera captures images that are transmitted to a screen, allowing healthcare professionals to have a clear view of the inside of the uterus.
Hysteroscopy can be used for diagnostic purposes to help doctors observe the condition inside the uterus, as well as for surgical procedures such as removing uterine polyps or fibroids. Due to its low invasiveness, hysteroscopy carries lower risks compared to other procedures, making it relatively safe.
Hysteroscopy can diagnose and address the following issues:
Hysteroscopy procedures can be performed in an outpatient clinic, as a day surgery, or as an inpatient surgery. The duration of the hysteroscopy procedure can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific case. However, diagnostic hysteroscopy, which does not involve any surgical intervention, can be completed in as little as 5 to 10 minutes.
Women with the following issues should consider undergoing hysteroscopy:
However, pregnant women or those with pelvic infections should avoid undergoing hysteroscopy.
The hysteroscopy used for diagnosis and hysteroscopic surgery differ in the following aspects:
| Hysteroscopy for Diagnosis | Hysteroscopic Surgery | |
| Instrument Size | Approximately 3-4.5 mm in diameter |
|
| Is anesthesia required? | Depending on the case | Yes |
| Where can it be performed? | Clinic, day surgery unit, and operating room | Operating room |
| Purpose | Diagnosis | Surgical intervention |
Hysteroscopy for diagnosis or surgery usually takes 5-60 minutes. During the procedure:
If the patient experiences any discomfort during the procedure, they should inform the doctor or nurse, who can temporarily pause the procedure.
Hysteroscopy is a relatively safe procedure with a risk of complications or adverse effects of less than 1%. However, patients may still face the following conditions after the surgery
If the following signs of infection or other issues occur, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly:
Patients may experience pain similar to menstrual cramps, which can be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The discomfort should subside within a few days.
There may be slight vaginal bleeding within two weeks after the surgery. During this time, it is recommended to avoid using tampons, douching, engaging in sexual activity, and swimming to prevent infection.
Menstruation may be delayed for up to six weeks after the procedure, and when it starts, the amount of menstrual blood may be higher than usual. However, if there is excessive vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, chills, fever, or any other abnormal symptoms, it is important to contact a doctor for evaluation.
Patients can resume a normal diet once the effects of anesthesia have worn off. If solid foods are not well tolerated after the surgery, it is advisable to consume warm water and liquid foods such as porridge. Subsequently, patients can consume nourishing foods and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods.
| Hospital | Procedure | Fees |
| Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong | Hysteroscopy + Curettage/Polypectomy (Monitored anesthesia/general anesthesia) – Diagnostic procedure | HK$31,760 and up |
| Hysteroscopy + Curettage/Polypectomy (Monitored anesthesia/general anesthesia) | HK$34,460 and up | |
| CUHK Medical Centre | Hysteroscopy +/- Endometrial sampling Cervical dilatation and curettage | HK$30,000 and up |
| Hysteroscopy + Endometrial sampling Cervical dilatation and curettage + Lesion excision procedure | HK$34,500 and up | |
| Hysteroscopy + Endometrial sampling Cervical dilatation and curettage + Lesion excision procedure | HK$49,260 and up | |
| Hospital Authority Private Medical Services | Hysteroscopy | HK$7,680 and up |
The experience of hysteroscopy can vary for each patient. Studies have indicated that factors such as the duration of the procedure, whether the patient has given birth before, and their level of anxiety before the surgery can all affect their perception of pain during hysteroscopy.
Whether anesthesia is required, and whether it is local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depends on the individual patient’s situation. It is recommended that patients consult and discuss with their doctor prior to the surgery.
Hysteroscopy surgery generally carries a low risk. According to obstetrician-gynecologists, after the surgery, patients should observe 2 to 3 regular menstrual cycles. If the symptoms such as decreased menstrual blood flow and abnormal bleeding between cycles disappear, they can prepare for pregnancy. On the other hand, if uterine fibroids and polyps are not actively addressed, they may become a barrier to fertility.
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