Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a procedure where a narrow telescope is used to examine the cavity of the womb and the internal part of the cervix (neck of the womb). During the procedure biopsies of the womb lining can be taken as well as treatment of common conditions such as polyps, submucosal fibroids (fibroids that are projecting into the cavity) or adhesions (scarring).
Common indications for hysteroscopy include:
- Heavy and/or irregular periods
- Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
- Fertility problems
- Recurrent miscarriage
- USS findings of thickened endometrium or lesions such as polyps or fibroids
- Postmenopausal bleeding
- To retrieve coils where the strings have retracted into the cavity
Hysteroscopy can be carried out as an outpatient procedure or under a short general anaesthetic.
Outpatient Hysteroscopy (OPH)
Hysteroscopy can be performed without the need for general anaesthetic. The procedure is carried out in a dedicated Outpatient Hysteroscopy Suite at OneWelbeck. Hysteroscopy takes 5-10 minutes and is usually very well tolerated although, if it is more painful, local anaesthetic can be used or the procedure is stopped and re-arranged under general anaesthetic. Small polyps and fibroids can often be treated during outpatient hysteroscopy.
It is recommended to take some simple pain relief (ibuprofen or paracetamol) an hour or so before the procedure and you should have something to eat and drink beforehand. You will be able to go home immediately after the procedure and do not need anyone to collect you. You can return to normal activities as soon as you feel ready, which is typically the same day.
Endometrial polyp
Hysteroscopy under general anaesthetic
Some patients prefer to go to sleep for the procedure or it may be more appropriate when removing larger polyps and fibroids. You will be asked to have nothing to eat for 6 hours before the procedure and nothing to drink except water up to 4 hours before the procedure. Following hysteroscopy you will typically need 2 hours or so to feel ready to go home after a GA. You will need a named person to pick you up from hospital and stay with you overnight. You can return to normal activities the following day.
Submucosal fibroid
After Hysteroscopy
Some bleeding after surgery is common and may last for a day or two although sometimes longer. You should avoid using tampons or having intercourse until bleeding and discharge has stopped. It is safe to have a shower or bath and to exercise normally as soon as you are ready (typically after 24 hours if you have had a GA). Mr Miskry will normally see you two weeks after surgery to go through the operative findings and any other results.
Useful links:
https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/patients/patient-leaflets/outpatient-hysteroscopy/
Request an appointment
Clinics are three times a week and Gail will help you arrange a time to see Mr Miskry and if necessary a scan on the same day.
If you are pregnant, you can expect to have a number of routine tests and appointments and you can find out more about the schedule of care here.
Appointments can be arranged by phone or email.
Book an Appointment
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FAQs
These are some of our most commonly asked questions, but you can see all of them here
Do I need a GP referral for private treatment?
No. However if you have private medical insurance please check with your insurer as they may require a GP referral in order to provide cover.
Where does Mr Miskry see patients?
All clinics are held at 148 Harley Street.
Where does Mr Miskry perform operations?
The Lindo Wing, St Mary’s Hospital and King Edward VII’s Hospital.
If I have a private consultation will this alter my care in the NHS?
No. Your treatment or position on an NHS waiting list will not be affected by having had a private consultation/surgery.
Are tests included in my consultation fee?
Any tests Mr Miskry recommends as part of your care are payable directly to the clinic/lab/hospital where they are carried out and are not part of our fees.