At the office of Dr. Sherry Thomas in Agoura Hills, we can address a number of different issues with a hysteroscopy. Doctor Sherry is an expertly trained, world renowned, board certified urogynecologist who specializes in women’s health and women’s health issues. If you’re having uterine issues, contact Dr. Sherry Thomas today to schedule a consultation. We can answer any questions you have, and we can offer the most effective treatment options.

Conditions Treated with Hysteroscopy

This procedure is used for both diagnostic purposes and for treatment of certain uterine issues. Using the camera, Dr. Sherry can view the interior of the reproductive organs to determine whether there are any problems that need to be addressed. Hysteroscopy is also used to visualize the organs during procedures such as fibroid or polyp removal, cauterization of the uterine lining, or biopsy.

What the Procedure Entails

Hysteroscopy is typically done as an outpatient surgery under local anesthesia. However, if the procedure is part of a more complex surgery, general anesthesia may be required. Prior to the surgery, medication will be given to dilate the cervix. The doctor inserts the thin tube containing the camera through the vagina and into the uterus. She is then able to view the interior of the organs on a special screen, and maneuver the camera to allow investigation of potential issues. If an additional procedure is being done, the doctor can insert necessary instruments through the hysteroscope. While complications are rare, they may include bleeding, infection, and cramping. In most cases, you should be able to resume normal activity within 24 hours.

When Hysteroscopy Is Needed

Your gynecologist may order this procedure if you’ve had an abnormal Pap test, if you’re experiencing unusual bleeding apart from your regular period, or if you’ve had repeated miscarriages or are experiencing infertility.

Common conditions that are diagnosed with this procedure include Asherman’s syndrome, in which bands of scar tissue develop in the uterus; uterine septum, which is a congenital malformation of the reproductive organs; and causes of abnormal bleeding. If you have a condition that requires minor surgery, such as polyps or endometriosis, or are being tested for cervical or uterine cancer, a hysteroscopy will also be used.

If you’re concerned about having a hysteroscope, talk with Dr. Sherry. She can answer any questions you may have about this procedure. If you’re scheduled for a hysteroscopy, be sure to tell us if there is a possibility you may be pregnant, since complications can occur.

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Dr. Sherry Thomas, Urogynecologist and surgeon, offers hysteroscopy procedures for a variety of reasons. This technology allows Dr. Sherry to get a closer look inside the uterus to determine what, if any, issues are present. If you’re struggling with conception and think the cause might be infertility, contact Dr. Sherry Thomas’s office in Agoura Hills, CA, today.

The diagnostic test is designed to determine if scar tissue is the cause of infertility or to determine if the fallopian tubes are blocked. This tool can also be used to check for endometrial cancers, remove small fibroids or polyps, to stop bleeding, and to remove problem areas in the lining of the uterus. Here some of the other benefits of a hysteroscopy:

Allows a Doctor to look at the Lining of Your Uterus

With a hysteroscope, a physician – like Dr. Sherry – can view the lining of your uterus. The tool is inserted into the vagina and moved through the cervix. Then, it’s moved into the uterus. When a light and camera are hooked to the hysteroscope, the lining of the uterus can easily be seen.

Can Help Find the Cause of Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding may be a sign that something may be wrong with the female anatomy. A hysteroscopy may be used to determine the cause of abnormal bleeding, which may be a sign of menopause. The tool can be used to remove growths from the uterus, as fibroids and polyps are the primary culprits in infertility.

Aids in Performing a Tissue Biopsy

A hysteroscopy may be used to take a small sample of tissue that may be examined under the microscope for problems. If infertility is a problem, laparoscopy may be used to eliminate the fertility problem.

Detects Abnormalities

Abnormalities in the endometrial cavity can often be responsible for infertility problems. They may also lead to recurrent miscarriage. A hysteroscopy combined with an ultrasound or a hysterosalpingogram may be effective in diagnosing abnormalities related to infertility.

Be Aware of Complications and Consult with a Physician

You should be aware of any complications that may be related to this diagnostic procedure. Common complications include infection, vaginal bleeding, fluid overload, and uterine perforation. Most women do not experience any complications or side effects. Only mild cramping will occur for 30 minutes and as long as eight hours for most women. Most women do not even require any anesthesia at all. If anesthesia is required, it means that a scope diameter of less than five millimeters is required.

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