When is it used?
- Bleeding between periods, very heavy periods or bleeding after the menopause
- A thickened uterine lining or suspected polyp on ultrasound
- Fibroids growing into the uterine cavity
- A uterine septum or adhesions
- Investigation of infertility or recurrent miscarriage
- A displaced coil (IUD) that cannot be removed in the usual way
Diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy
Preparation and timing
The procedure is ideally planned for the first days after your period has finished, when the uterine lining is thin and the view clearer. Pregnancy is excluded beforehand. If anaesthesia is used, you will need to fast for a few hours.
How is it done?
The hysteroscope is gently passed through the cervix and the uterine cavity is distended with fluid to give a clear view. The images are shown on a screen. Any necessary treatment is carried out in the same session. The duration depends on the findings but is usually short, and most patients go home the same day.
After the procedure
Mild cramping and spotting for a few days are expected. Contact your doctor if you develop a fever, increasing pain, heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge.
Hysteroscopy is a safe procedure; complications such as perforation of the uterus, infection or fluid-related problems are rare.
Frequently asked questions
Is hysteroscopy painful?
Most patients tolerate diagnostic hysteroscopy well; there may be a sensation similar to period pain. Operative hysteroscopy is done under anaesthesia, so no pain is felt during the procedure.
How long does it take?
Diagnostic hysteroscopy usually takes a few minutes. Operative procedures take longer depending on the treatment needed.
When can I return to normal life?
Most patients return to daily activities the next day. Your doctor will advise how long to wait before bathing, swimming and sexual intercourse.
When will I get the results?
The visual findings can be discussed straight after the procedure. If a tissue sample was taken, the pathology result is usually available within a few days to two weeks.
Book a consultation
Prof. Dr. Derya Sivri Aydın sees patients at Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital, Istanbul. International patients are supported by the hospital's International Patient Services Center.
The information on this page is for general guidance only; the right diagnosis and treatment for you are decided after a consultation. Last updated: November 2026.