FERTILITY TESTING

The Uterus

Hysteroscopy (hysto)

What is a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that allows a physician to view the inside of the uterus. The physician can look for uterine growths or scars and may remove them if they are present.

When do I get a hysteroscopy?

This procedure is performed between days 5-9 of the menstrual cycle and is done under IV sedation.

When can I get an SIS?

An SIS is performed in the clinic between 10:00am and 12:00pm. This can be done between days 5-9 of a transfer cycle, so there is no need to wait or waste time.

How should I prepare for a hysteroscopy?

To prepare for the IV sedation, one should refrain from eating 6 hours prior to the procedure and refrain from drinking fluids 3 hours prior to the procedure. Additionally, you will be prescribed a 7-day course of Doxycycline, which is an antibiotic to help prevent infection.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After the procedure, a nurse will monitor you for about an hour as you recover from the IV sedation.

The most common side effects from IV sedation are nausea and drowsiness.

You may experience spotting or bleeding for the next 7-10 days, this is normal. Spotting or bleeding may stop and restart during this time. Do not use a tampon, instead use a sanitary pad or panty liner in order to assess the bleeding.

It is normal to have mild to moderate lower abdominal cramps (similar to menstrual cramps). This is best treated with Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Motrin/Advil (Ibuprofen) which are sold over the counter. You may take up to 1000mg of Acetaminophen every 6 hours (if you have any kidney problems you make take up to 500mg of Acetaminophen every 6 hours) and 600mg of Ibuprofen every 6-8 hours. The two medications may overlap, as long as they are taken 2 hours apart.