Outpatient hysteroscopy service

Our service provides a Direct Access Hysteroscopy Service, providing convenient appointments made to suit the patient.

Community service

Outpatient hysteroscopy is a procedure that involves the use of a miniaturised endoscopic camera to directly visualise the uterine cavity without the need for general anaesthesia.

This service offers a safe and convenient means of diagnosing and treating abnormal uterine bleeding, as well as aiding the management of reproductive problems and insertion/retrieval of intrauterine devices.

This procedure is performed by either a consultant or specialist nurse hysteroscopist, along with at least two members of the nursing team. Patients receive information regarding the procedure and what to expect prior to the appointment.

Before your visit

You may be sent an appointment for a hysteroscopy if you have heavy or irregular periods, bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, recurrent miscarriages, difficulty getting pregnant, suspected uterine polyps or fibroids.

Patients can be referred to the outpatient hysteroscopy clinic directly from the GP, any gynaecology outpatient clinic or from other specialities.

During your visit

Outpatient hysteroscopy, whether diagnostic or operative, is usually successful, safe and well tolerated. You will be awake during the procedure. Most women do not need anaesthesia, but a local anaesthetic may be used to reduce discomfort. We may also provide the use of Entonox, and a warm soothing heat pack to use if required.

The hysteroscopy nurse will help you to position yourself on a special type of couch. A speculum may be inserted into your vagina to help access the cervix. The hysteroscope is then passed through the vagina and cervix into your uterus. Saline (a sterile fluid) is used to gently expand the uterus for a clearer view. The doctor will examine the lining of your uterus and may take a biopsy or remove small polyps or fibroids if necessary.

If outpatient hysteroscopy is not tolerated the procedure may be performed on a different day under general anaesthesia.

After your visit

You may have cramps, light bleeding, or watery discharge for a few days. Most women feel well enough to return to normal activities within a day.

You will be given specific instructions on aftercare.

If you have had a biopsy, you will have to wait for the results of this test; any further treatment will depend on this result.