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Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy
by T

Why Would You be Doing a Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy, when your cervix is dilated and a small set of surgical tools is inserted into the uterus, is usually recommended when your doctor has noticed something strange during an HSG or saline sonogram. Sometimes both these tests are normal, but other issues (pregnancy loss, bleeding, IVF failure) may indicate hysteroscopy. Hysteroscopy allows your doctor to envision the uterine lining using fiber optics, after pumping the womb full of sterile air or fluid. She can then easily detect any irregularities. Septums, uterine polyps (benign overgrowths of the lining), and some fibroids can be carefully removed. Hysteroscopy is considered the gold-standard treatment for growths like polyps, which are too often missed during blind D & Cs.

What You Can Expect

Depending on where the procedure falls in your cycle and why it’s being done, you may be prescribed birth control pills to keep your lining thin and make it easier for your doctor to figure out what’s going on. I was able to schedule mine for early enough in my cycle to avoid this.

Most hysteroscopies are performed as outpatient surgeries under general anesthesia. This means you will need someone to take you to and from the surgery, and you will have to fast. Make sure you understand exactly what’s expected by the particular surgical center, as they often have varying protocols.

If, like me, you are scheduled for an afternoon slot, chug as much water as you can right up to the midnight cut off. Also, it’s good to avoid any anesthesia-related regularity issues by taking a stool softener and/or eating ample fiber in advance. The cramping post-procedure can make constipation a real downer, to put it mildly.

Once you’ve arrived at the surgical center, you’ll have an IV started and may be given a pregnancy test. After your doctor and anesthesiologist have spoken to you briefly to review what’s about to happen, you’ll be taken into the operating room. A few seconds after the anesthesiologist administered a drug into my IV, I was out like Rip van Winkle. Depending on the timing, your doctor might speak with you or your companion about the results of the procedure. In my case, my husband got the report, as I was still down for the count. If you think you’ll have questions that your companion won’t think to ask, write them down.

Though hysteroscopies do not involve any incisions, the dilation and activity in the uterus do lead to unpleasant cramping, pain, and bleeding. I was given naproxen (Aleve) to take for the cramping, as well as hydrocodone for pain. Even if you think you won’t need them, fill these prescriptions ahead of time if possible. The cramping may not start right away, but it will come and you’ll welcome the relief.

Though you’ll likely get a pad from the center to deal with the bleeding, I brought along my favorite kind, just for comfort’s sake. You may also want to wear comfy clothing like a loose dress or sweats and take a cardigan, hoodie, or other cozy wrap to keep you warm before and after surgery. Bring your favorite pillow to keep the pressure of the seat belt off your belly for the ride home, and snacks for the trip home like juice, yogurt, and water. Stock up beforehand on some tasty, nourishing, fairly bland and soft comfort foods for the evening after surgery. Some gals even suggest throwing a little get together, though I personally was content to sprawl on my pillows and watch DVDs.

After a few days, you’ll likely be feeling pretty good, if not completely back to normal. If you can manage it, take it easy the day of and the day after the procedure. Get some good books, good movies, treats, and take really good care of yourself. You may have some spotting or bleeding for a few days afterward.

Ask your doctor before you go under about post-op follow up, signs that you need additional medical assistance, and how long you should avoid tampons, sex, and any other cervical annoyances. Though I can’t recall getting specific instructions, some online research showed that two to three weeks of pelvic rest was best. Anything removed from your lining will likely be sent to a pathologist for testing, though malignant growths are extremely rare in pre-menopausal women. Though some women have mentioned that they’ve had unusual periods following the procedure, I only noticed that mine was a little later and lighter than usual.

Personal Tips

We discovered that I had polyps thanks to a saline sonogram, after a normal HSG. Polyps were suspected in my case because of luteal phase spotting. If you have persistent, regular spotting but a normal HSG, get a saline sonogram just in case. It may give you additional information, and it’s basically painless compared to the HSG.

I combined my hysteroscopy with a laparoscopy, an increasingly common diagnostic combo in infertility. This two-birds-one-stone approach seemed to work very well: I was already out cold, and my doctor could give us the full picture of my pelvic and uterine health, thus increasing my peace of mind. In the end, three small benign polyps were removed, and two spots of endometriosis blasted with a laser. The entire procedure took less than an hour, all told.

With the addition of the lap, I had more pain than you normally would with hysteroscopy alone, due to the incisions and the gas used to inflate the abdomen.

Rest is the most important part of recovery. I slept and lounged my way through two days, when I started to feel much better and no longer needed the pain medications. Any friends or family willing to contribute meals and keep you resting should be heartily encouraged. The more you sleep now, the better you’ll feel in the long run.

70 comments

1 Hillary { 05.04.09 at 7:09 pm }

Thanks for such a great run-down of the procedure! I’m having a hysteroscopy in a few weeks and feel more prepared now. 🙂

2 Sky { 06.21.09 at 2:30 pm }

I had a "fiber optic Hysteroscopy" last year – nothing but 800 mg Ibuprofen. Total cake!

3 Jamie { 02.22.10 at 10:47 am }

This is really helpful! Thank you for writing it. I’m scheduled for hysteroscopic polypectomy and uterine ablation March 12th and wondering what to expect from it. I’ve never had surgery before under a general and this really helps to hear this kind of story. It sounds a lot less frightening than what I have in my head right now LOL!

4 Mary { 03.25.10 at 11:02 am }

This is helpful, thanks! After I had a HSG a few weeks ago, we found out I have polyps. I was told to start taking birth control pills the first day of my next period and call my doctor’s office to schedule the procedure to be done within the next 3 weeks (after I start taking the pills). Does anyone know why the procedure has to wait until my next cycle and within the first 3 weeks?

5 Mary { 04.14.10 at 8:18 am }

oh, and one more thing, they also told me they don’t know how many polyps I have and what size. I find that kind of odd.

6 Dre { 11.12.10 at 11:31 am }

Thank you for this! I am having one next week, combined with a d&c, and hearing a “real” account of what to expect is reassuring.

7 Sarah { 05.26.12 at 11:38 am }

By far the worst part of my hysteroscopy was the medicine they gave me to dilate my cervix the night before. It caused the worst cramping I’ve ever experienced, and the hydrocodone they gave me didn’t touch it. I called the doctor, and she told me to fish the pills out of my vagina. The lowered the severity of the pain from excruciating to very, very bad.

The procedure itself wasn’t too bad, although two days later, I’m still waking up with bad cramps every morning.

I have adenomyosis as well, so I’m wondering if my cramping issues are more severe because of this.

8 Anon { 11.29.12 at 2:45 pm }

Had my hysteroscopy 2 days ago. Went back to work today for 3.5 hours. The misoprostil that I needed to take night before and day of surgery wasn’t that much fun but I wouldn’t call it pain. Surgery went well according to dr and my 2 cm polyp was removed. No real pain post procedure just cramping that I only was advised Tylenol and or Advil for. Truthfully i don’t need think I need more than that. The hardest part as I’ve found in all my surgeries is the brain fog post anesthesia. Technically I am allowed to drive today 2 days post op but I wouldn’t trust me on the road! I’m a virgin and everything expects everything to hurt way more for me. I have to say its not true and although yes I was scared for anyone being fearful – it wasn’t so bad!

9 Denise { 02.12.13 at 9:01 pm }

I am having this done on Friday. Very nervous, but hope all goes well.

10 Shay { 02.15.13 at 10:37 pm }

I had a hysteroscopy done this morning. All seemed to go well. I think it took longer for the anesthesia to wear off than the actual procedure. It’s hard to retain what the doctor is saying to you when you are still incapacitated but all i can recall is her saying she got it out, the surgery was successful, and showed me a printout of the pictures of the polyp before and after removal.
Bleeding has been minimal, spotting is a more accurate description. I think it’s mostly tiny remnants of the procedure than bleeding. (sorry if that’s too much information!) 12 hours post surgery and I the only discomfort I feel is period-like bloating. I napped on and off after I got home. My doctor prescribed vicodin, which I don’t have the need for. I have Aleve and Advil but haven’t needed either.
I’ve read other blogs where women who have had a hysteroscopy said that they resumed intercourse 2 days post surgery. I don’t think that’s wise. Wait. Although my doctor forgot to mention that information to me, the discharge nurse said to wait until I have my post-op visit. You might have small tears and do not want to risk infection, which obviously can complicate and create unwanted issues. It’s better to err on the side of caution and make sure you have fully healed.

11 In need a hyster-what now? | IF Pomgranate { 05.16.13 at 4:35 pm }

[…] Ok so Dr. H wants to make sure everything is hunky dory up in uterus land so would like to do a Hysteroscopy. Yes I went home and looked it up. But he also explained the procedure. He says that I will need to […]

12 Jen { 05.29.13 at 7:57 pm }

Thanks for the extremely detailed description of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. I’m going in a few weeks, and your site has been the most helpful one I’ve found so far. Informative and reassuring. And now I know to bring a pillow for the long trip home – I would never have thought of that!

13 Debbie { 06.07.13 at 5:31 pm }

I had mine done six weeks ago and am still bleeding, nothing major but still a couple of pads a day. 🙁

14 Shane { 07.02.13 at 3:38 am }

Bottom line: I’d be so mad if they insisted on putting me out for this under general or even I.V. sedation! It goes so quickly and I had NO PAIN. Especially for a simple diagnostic hysteroscopy, in my personal opinion it is probably not necessary to be put under (and I had what is called an operative hysteroscopy, where they remove a polyp). Ladies, we’re so much stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Don’t be afraid of this procedure. Had this done in my gynecologist’s office on Friday to remove a polyp. Did the whole thing on only 4 Advil (taken an hour before) and local anesthetic injected into my cervix (which doctor let take effect for 10 minutes before she started procedure). It was a breeze! I have a “hard” cervix and have not had any children – and it was pretty painless, totally painless when she was dilating my cervix, which is apparently the part that’s supposed to hurt. A tiny, tiny, bit crampy here and there throughout, but nothing major and not even as bad as my normal menstrual cramps. Every woman is different, though. I may just be very lucky that my body tolerated it so well. But had to share my experience. My doctor wanted to do it in OR. I did my research and said no. So she agreed to do it in-office. (I’m stubborn. I don’t give up control very easily. But hey, it’s MY body!) After more research, on the day of, I refused the Toradol shot, an anti-“dizzy” shot and the IV shot of valium she wanted to give me (all the shots and drugs freaked me out more than the prospect of possibly being uncomfortable for a few minutes, so I said no). For some reason, I knew I would be okay without it. (Doctor almost wouldn’t do the procedure, but said she’d “try”). I barely felt the shots in my cervix (she sprayed numbing spray before the shots). And I barely felt her cutting off the tiny little apple seed-sized polyp. I was totally fine, talking about clothes the entire time with the nurse. It went really quickly. Loved seeing the inside of my uterus on the TV screen! Bled a little after and was crampy for a few hours. But you will have all that anyway even if you’re given GA or sedation. I’m the type of person who hates medical procedures and doctors and needles, etc. But I can sometimes get myself into fight mode (iPod helps) and just power through things that I know won’t take that long. Some people like to be “out”. It’s a little extreme for me unless completely necessary and it makes me nauseous afterward, so I was happy to have none of that and go about my day. I can’t stress enough how easy this was for me. I’m very lucky as I know it might not be that easy for other women. Am so mad at myself for wasting so much time worrying about it the days leading up to the procedure. I think we all need to be more outspoken and ask questions of our doctors when it comes to surgeries and procedures like this. Not just do what they tell us to do because we assume they know what’s best for us. Or because it’s easier on the doctor when the patient is unconscious and not talking or in pain (which is often the reason they want to put us out for something simple like this). Oh, she gave me a 3-day course of Cipro afterward to prevent infection. Good luck and good health to all of you!

15 Shane { 07.02.13 at 3:49 am }

Clarifying above post (as if it isn’t long enough!) I want to stress that I had a PARA-CERVICAL block, which is important. It not only numbs the cervix, but much of the lower part of the uterus, as well, which is where most of the work is being done. So, ask for the para-cervical block! I think it did wonders for me. The endometrial biopsy I had weeks ago (with no numbing, just Advil) hurt more than the polyp being removed in the hysteroscopy.

16 Amalia { 07.25.13 at 10:35 am }

I have one week hysteroscopie about 1cm how to have a sex or can I have a sex now?

17 Kay { 10.09.13 at 3:51 pm }

I had on in the doctor’s office. I was not told to take anything beforehand for the pain, as well as I didn’t know anything about the procedure. I was given no pain medication and the cramping was uncomfortable,but when they took the polyp off it was very painful, in fact I screamed. The doctor joked I was a tough cookie, cause they normally put people out for this…I don’t know if he was serious or making a joke, but I wasn’t laughing. I would suggest looking into numbing the area because I was shaking after procedure and I think it was because my body was in shock.

18 mel { 11.11.13 at 7:05 pm }

Shane,
What were your symptoms before having this done?

19 kath { 12.12.13 at 2:36 pm }

Had hysteroscopy today. Completely fine. Dentists is worse. Took ibuprofen. 1 x 400ml 3 hours before. Worrying about it prior was much worse than procedure itself. Insertion of optic totally fine.just want to reassure anyone waiting for the procedure.

20 Reene { 03.29.14 at 1:17 pm }

It took me a while to decide on this procedure (as I’m a virgin) despite the fact I had extremely heavy bleeding last month that lowered my HB level from 12 to 8.4 in just a few days.

I had the procedure this morning with general anasthesia and I could leave the hospital a couple of hours after I woke up in the recovery room.

By the way, the doctor prescribed me a medicine that I had to take 10 hours before the procedure. The purpose is to ‘relax’ my cervix. I had some itchiness under my skin of all hand fingers for a couple of minutes, later I felt it in both of my tighs for a minute or so. But I could sleep well within an hour as the effects stopped in a few minutes.

The hysteroscopy procedure took about 30-45 minutes and I woke up shortly after it finished.
It was good to hear when the obgyn said my hymen was still intact a after the procedure. Yet, I have to wait until Thursday for the result of the biopsy. Hopefully it will also be a good news.

Before I left the hospital, the obgyn prescribed me: antibiotics, painkillers and anti-bleeding drugs

21 Ac { 04.02.14 at 8:58 pm }

I had a polyp removed 5 days ago and still super crampy but only at the end of my long days. I’m shocked everyone else is just fine when I’m experiencing pain that is awful.

22 Tins { 04.11.14 at 7:01 am }

Hi, yesterday morning i had a hysterscopic myomectomy for removal of a 3 cm fibroid. It seems the size of fibroid was a bit more than seen in MRI. Presently i have this dull back ache and very light bleeding with no severe cramps and a tiny sore spot un lower abdomen when touched. However a bit weak as i am anemic from previous periods which had heavy bleeds and clotting . I also have several fibroids which are intra uterine wall. Is it all normal to have this dull back ache and sore?

23 Parod { 04.23.14 at 7:43 pm }

I had a HSG done today in a radiologist office. No meds prior or during. No pain what so ever. It was uncomfortable but that was from my uterus being filled with the dye. The only thing that hurt was the speculum being left in during the test which lasted 25-30 mins. No bleeding afterwards.

24 Joy hunt { 05.02.14 at 10:35 am }

Thanks for your detailed description,
I had an inconclusive Hysteroscopy just over a week ago with a pipelle biopsy. They said they took lots of samples, but so far no results. It’s just living with the worry of what it might be that’s so hard I think!
Family are worried too & message me constantly to see if I’ve got results!
The procedure was done under General as they couldn’t do in outpatients as my cervix was ‘stenosed’ presumably as I am post menapausal!

25 lisa { 05.08.14 at 3:58 am }

I am sheduled to have hysteroscopic polypectomy next month due to infertility problem but have been worried about the procedure. Now that i have heard enough from diff women, i am now relaxed and ready to do it without fear. Thanks for your contributions.

26 T Garrett { 06.09.14 at 10:44 am }

Thanks for the information. As a result of your detailed explanation, I went into my hysteroscopy knowing exactly what to expect before and after the procedure. I can’t wait to completely heal and see if the procedure really worked for me.

27 emmz { 07.28.14 at 12:02 pm }

i had an hysteroscopy and polypectomy last thursday 24th july and am still in a lot of pain from having it done cramping pains and a little discharge should I be worried about this??

28 Charm { 07.29.14 at 6:27 am }

I had my hysteroscopy two weeks ago. An hour before the procedure, I took a painkiller that was provided with my prep packet. The procedure lasted under 30 minutes, a polyp removed. The only discomfort I felt was cramps when the instrument passed through my cervix. I’ve had worse cramps during menstruation! For about three days after, I had a very light discharge, brownish in colour… I felt a few slight twinges, barely noticeable. I waited for a week before having sex, by which time my body was fully back to normal. Apart from the pre-op painkiller, I did not require any other medication. The only thing, now, is that my period appears to be delayed… I expected it two days ago. So, all in all, for me, it was a piece of cake, thankfully. 🙂

29 DV { 08.28.14 at 8:00 pm }

I had a D&C with hysteroscopy at 9am this morning. It is now 4pm, and the Oxycotin I was given in the hospital following the procedure has worn off, and the cramping/discomfort is getting worst. My friend/family is picking up my prescription for 800mg Motrin now, so I should be out of pain soon.

The worst part of the procoedure for me was inserting the IV. I arrived at the hospital at 7:00am (via taxi) was processed, underwent a review of my medical history….odd this was already taken by phone with an intake specialist, two days ago, but when undergoing general anesthesia, I guess one can never be too careful, and finally I’m prepped for surgery.

I wish I could change thus “tiny” to another body part, but I have tiny veins, so IV’s are TOUGH for me. It took two nurses several tries, but after beating my veins (literally…yes, they do in fact have to pound on me) all was well, we found a vein, that would allow the smallest needle (22) and I was off and running. Then I had a series of visitors. First up was the hospital chaplain (a nice woman named Donna who offered prayer, and I accepted), followed by the two nurses who would assist my doctor in surgery. Another thorough review of my my medical records, and a few questions based on their review, they appeared to be satisfied with my answers, and soon left, only to return about five minutes later, and ask a couple more questions as a result of additional review of my medical history. Talk about thorough! They know more about me, then I know about myself. Next up was a medical student, who would be assisting/observing. What a breath of fresh air, and so polite, her parents should be very proud. She raved about my dream team (doc, nurses, and anesthesiologist) ….and boy was she was right, they were all awesome. Next up was my anesthesiologist Eugene. Very cool dude, thorough, professional, and resembled a very clean harley biker dude (love the salt and pepper goatee). Pretty sure he is/was a biker, as he was wearing a very cool biker cap “no bib”. Yes he covered it with a surgical cap when we went into the OR, but it really accented his scrubs. Finally, the man of the hour, the man I’ve given the title of best “girl parts” doctor ever. Brilliant man, graduated from one of the nations top medical schools with high honors. So I was in capable hands. This hospital has great SOP’s, every time, someone new would enter the room to speak to me, they made sure they were with the right patient, by asking my full name, DOB, and then doing a visual check of my bracelet. I love the extra steps and added precaution. I’ve been in two other hospitals in the last three months as a result of health issues, and they just barge in, start their questioning, even administered medication without even peeking at my bracelet. One exception was X-ray who, actually verified I was the right patient, and then left me in the hall for 2 hrs, because there was no room for me anywhere else.

Before I move on, allow me to share a bit of my GYN medical history here. I’ve been seeing my new GYN for one month now. Prior to Dr. Ryu, I had the same GYN for eight years. I hated her! Hate is not a word I use loosely, especially when referring to people, but she was the worst; bad beside manor, office visit waits were never under an hour, constantly complained about malpractice suits and the cost of malpractice insurance (should have been my sign) and her office mixed up my PAP Smear results with another patient on one occassion. They called to tell me I had an STD, called in a prescription, which I (embarrasingly) and ex boyfriend filled and started. Obviously, my ex had lots of not so nice questions fired at him. He was as surprised as I was, but was saved when her office called me the very next day and told me they made a mistake, and got my lab results mixed up with another patient with same DOB, and that we should stop taking the meds immediately! WTF….what if I had killed him, believing he put me at risk for something curable and un-curable. Still after this….I hung in there for another two years…and I have excellent insurance. Don’t ask me why, but I eventually stopped going to her, and didn’t visit a GYN or have a PAP Smear for 2-years. Meanwhile my symptoms worsened and my fibroids grew. Not good! I’m out of denial now, and very happy with my new GYN and on the road to fixing all that needs fixing.

So after my parade of visitors, my assigned pre-op nurse Vicki came in to see me one more time, and let me know they would be taking me up to the OR soon. She secured my belongings in a locker and two or three minutes later, the nurses and the med student came and wheeled me away. Five minutes, and a short elevator ride later we were there. Let me pause for a moment…..the surgical center of this hospital (actually the entire wing) is brand spanking new, and although I don’t have a lot of experience with surgical procedures, this OR was pimped out, and huge (1300+ sq. ft.; yes, I can walk in any room and give you a pretty good estimate of the square footage….its what I do for a living). Everything was shiny, and new, and well laid out; electronics, robotic arms, lights, camera, action. The Maserati of OR’s.

Ok, where was I?

Upon arrival, there was another nurse who introduced herself. I’m calling her role, instrument duty nurse, as she was at a long table with all the sterile instruments. There was a lot there, but I quickly looked away so I wouldn’t freak out. At that moment, Eugene (the cool anesthesiologist) announced to the group ” the arrival time is 9:03am”. Guess that was a SOP. Oh yeah, the awesome Dr. Ryu was preparing whatever a doctor prepares before surgery, and I was transfered to a special bed. As soon as I’m on the bed, they strapped me in with some serious straps. There were no stir-ups that i recall, so I wonder if the high tech bed, tilted and turned upside down for them to do what they needed to do, while I slept. Next, Eugene tells me he just gave me the relaxation meds. I looked at the clocked… It is now 9:05:34 and that’s all i remember. This team worked on precision. I wish my conferences could operate with such precision. This my friends is a work in progress.

I woke up in the recovery wing about 10:15am with all the monitoring stuff on me. Heart rate monitors on my chest, blood pressure cuff, and a finger clip for heart rate I think. My attendant was nice enough, but very social. Had lengthy personal conversations with everyone who walked by, but I didn’t need anything. Was just trying to get my bearings, and concentrate on not nodding off, which I really wanted to do, but knew that would delay my departure. After staying within my baseline for 30-40 minutes, she called my friend/family member who was driving me home, and told them, I’d be ready in 30-45 minutes. She asked if I wanted ginger ale, but I was parched and requested water instead. I was also asked about pain level on a 1-10 scale. Suprisingly, I was only at a 3-4, but they gave me OxyContin to bring me to zero. About 20 minutes later, I was moved to recovery area two by some random person ( I don’t know that its called this officially, but thats what I’m calling it). At the time I gave this lady the title of orderly (are they still called those?), but soon to be corrected.

So this is the only time I felt rushed. My new nurse, was overwhelmed I believe. She checked my vitals, but then would leave for long periods of time. First to retrieve my personal belongs, so I could get dressed. I waited 10-15 minutes, but had to use the bathroom, so I walked down the hall a bit to the closest one. Mind you, I’m wearing the yellow “susceptible to fall” bracelet, and I’m not supposed to walk unaccompanied in the hospital. Oh well, woman’s got to do what a woman’s got to do. Down the hall I went “solo” in my flapping hospital gown. At this point, I didn’t really care, I just had to go. By the time I got back to my room, my clothes and purse were there, but the nurse was gone. While I was getting dressed she popped in to let me know she was putting together my discharge packet. Someone actually popped in at that exact time and asked if she was ok or needed some help. She said she was ok, but in my opinion, she needed help. Help,is not a four letter word. The lady, I assumed was an orderly, was apparently more than that, because the nurse asked her to come in and remove my IV while she went over the discharge instructions. My IV was removed quickly and efficiently (thank you random orderly/nurses assistant lady). Discharge instructions, were reviewed. I asked if prescriptions could be called or faxed to my pharmacy, she said if I could get the fax number she would. I called got the number, and they were presumably faxed. Finally, I was wheeled down to the hospitals main drive and placed in the car of my family/friend, who is actually my ex’s mom/sons grandmother.

On the way home we swung by the pharmacy, but they had not received the prescription via fax. I wasn’t totally surprised. As I stated, the discharge, was a bit messy. No worries….I was dropped off at home, and friend/family picked up my prescription after running a few personal errands. It was dropped off while I typed this report. Just in time, because the pain was kicking my butt!

Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to speak with my doctor before leavimg, because my initial recovery was a little longer than expected, and by then he was back in surgery. No worries, I have a follow-up in a couple of weeks. Besides, I was still floating a bit from the anesthesia, I’m not sure how much I would have recalled. In my case I did not have a friend/family wait with me, I just had a pick-up, so there was no one else he could have discussed things with.

That’s pretty much it, but here are a few tips.

General VS local, VS. hardly any :
I know some said they prefer having the procedure in the doctor office with just local anesthesia Its definitely your decision, but all procedures are different, as are the reasons for the procedure, so get all the facts and weigh your options. I had the procedure due to a moderate sized fibroid, and several smaller cyst/fibroids, heavy bleeding, and horrific pain. I’ve been enduring the pain for about three years, and needless to say, I’m not putting myself through any unnecessary pain, and my pain threshold is pretty damn high, so general anesthesia in my book ROCKS.

Hospital versus Doctor’s Office:
I plan major conventions and events for a living so a big part of my job is having a plan of action, in case something goes wrong, which is often. So being in a hospital, fully prepped with an IV so drugs can be administerd in a moments notice could save your life (just my two cents), so that will always be my prefernce if I have to go through this again, and I’m sure I will.

Friends/Family:
It’s great if you can have someone there with you, but not necessary. I don’t really have any family in the state, and my son is only 14 1/2. While he’s a big help at home while I recover, not of legal age for the release, and can’t drive, so he wasn’t an option. My boyfrirnd couldn’t be there due to work, so although I had a few pity parties, I was okay going solo. I wasn’t the only one either, but definitely if some one can be there with you, that’s the way to go.

Prescription versus OTC:
This is a personal preference, and will depend on your pain threshold. Mine is pretty high, but I’ve been pretty beat up the last few years, with some bad episodes the last four-five months, so enough already….give me the good stuff! The OxyContin addiction stories I hear about really bother me, so I try to avoid that drug, although I’m sure most prescription pain killers can be just as addictive, the others don’t cause the same anxiety for me. I do try to limit use of prescription painkillers to the first 1-3 days or as needed, and transition to OTC as soon as possible. What I will suggest is if at all possible, ask the prescriber to submit the prescription in advance, and confirm with the pharmacy that they receive the prescription request, so its ready when you arrive. The last thing you want do after any surgical procedure is wait 20-35 minutes for a prescription to be filled. Enough said.

Well my prescription pain pills have kicked in and I’m feeling pretty good. I can probably go back to sleep now. He must have done a lot of scraping and snipping for me to be in that amount of pain, but if it gets rid of what I endured for so long, scrap and snip away.

My discharge instructions:
*Rest for next couple of days, no prolonged standingm strnous activity for 24-48hrs (walking as tolerated, ambulatory encouraged)
*No driving while taking Narcotic Pain Relievers (OTC by Sat for me)
* Pelvic rest! Nothing inside the vagina for “4 weeks”. (No exceptions)
*No importsnt decisions in next 24hrs
*Drink lots of water
*Avoid constipstion by taking colace and metamucil)
*No alcohol 24-48hrs
*Weigh myself on weekly badid. Report sudden weight gsin to physician immedialy. (What’s that about?)

For those who read my entry in its entirety, thanks for hanging in there. I shared my experience and probably more than you cared to know for the benefit of others. Boards like stir-up sisters and hyster sisters have been helpful. I love reading about others experiences, and well…that’s just the way I roll.

My boss is so sweet. She wanted to have dinner delivered, but I don’t think any of the nearby restaurants deliver, besides the pizza/sub shops, and I’m not really feeling that. Good news is I planned accordingly. No big surprise. Yesterday, I picked up a rotisserie chicken, some salads from the grocery deli, and soup that my son can easily warm for us, so all is well.

Good luck with your procedure and healing process. I’m going to try to send an edible arrangement to the dream team who took such good care of me next week. When you’re going solo, it helps when the people caring for you are professional, nice and appear to care. I know its their job….but you can do a great job without ‘feeling’ or an awesome job with feeling and showing emotion. These guys were awesome! Oh yes, the last nurse, was either new, or her patient load was too heavy. She too gets a “A” for effort. If I require additional surgical procedures, and I suspect I might, I hope I get the same dream team.

30 Glynn { 10.06.14 at 12:05 pm }

Thanx to DV for her extremely thorough rundown of her “event”…I’m having a D&C plus hysteroscopy in a few days…her explanation definitely settled my nerves and answered most of my questions…

31 noxolo { 10.29.14 at 6:06 pm }

I had a hysteroscopy in ast two months and im no longer getting into my period cycly. n if im doing a pregnant test it is negative and im nw wondering whats is happening

32 Bky { 12.01.14 at 6:51 am }

Thanks for sharing, ladies. I’m having a hysteroscopy tomorrow and now know what to expect & the right questions for the doctor when I meet her in a few hours.
I’ll be back to share my experience. Wish me luck.

33 Julie { 12.12.14 at 3:52 pm }

Hi there I had my hysteroscopy on wensday and although I felt ok after I still had cramps in stomach and back . I had to have one due to been on medication for breast cancer for the past five years and after not seeing a period for five years I have been bleeding for 2 months and on some occisions it has been very heavy , I have bleed since having it done but today I have lost some large blood clots is this normal I should I contact the hospital we’re had it done ?

34 F.Higgins { 12.20.14 at 9:53 pm }

Hi ,I had a laproscope and hysteroscope 17 days ago ,I had a period after that for 5 days.12 days later I am bleeding again heavy.Is this normal?

35 kelly { 01.20.15 at 5:26 pm }

I had a hysteroscopy just over a year ago. Since then when my period is due my breasts are so sore and my tummy still swells. Over the last 4/5 months I’ve started showing again. I don’t mean to sound crude but my shows are dark red if not close to black. Some months I’m in pain others are just boobs sensitive and tummy swelling. But my moods are going back to many years ago. They were ok for the 1st few month’s but are getting worse again. Mostly emotional but the anger is coming back. I’m not a one for talking as I deal with things in my own way. But I’ve also had a lot of stress the last year and I wondered if anyone could tell me if this is all starting again due to stress or its normal. I’m 41 2 beautiful teenage girls and always suffered with my periods. Naively I thought it was all sorted when I had this op. But obviously not x

36 yusnita { 01.30.15 at 2:40 am }

Hi.
Am a breast cancer survivor on tamoxifen and did hysterscopy with d&c recently. 2 days later i am still bleeding…somewhat like normal periods. Is it normal. how long will the bleeding last?

37 Dal { 02.10.15 at 4:41 pm }

I had a hysteroscopy polypectomy and laparoscopy yesterday and had given me GA , i got two small incision under my navel and beneath the abdomen.. I slept during the procedure so i had no idea what were its look like.. I just woke up i was in recovery room and took back my clothes to wear on. I felt dizzy and didnt recognize yet my husband face all i saw were white but i knew that it was him talking to me and needed to leave right away in the surgery.. When we got home i threw up and felt the pain in my incision sites so i took the oxycodone that was prescribed my obgyn…i feel better today except for feeling light headed occasionally and small spoting in my pads. I ate cantalop and more fluids for my recovery easily…

38 G { 02.13.15 at 9:06 pm }

Hi, I am just adding my experiences too. I had a polp removed in my gynaecologist’s office 3 years ago. I had a discharge for a week or so afterwards from memory and mild pain. He removed it there rather than under GA as it was easily accessible. I believe that polps can grow on the outside and the inside of the cervix.

5 days ago I had a polpectomy, hysteroscopy and D and C because another polp was found. this time it was growing inside the cervix and so couldn’t be removed easily and with assurance of stopping the bleeding unless under GA. This time has been a bit more cramping and pain. I have been told not to swim or bath or use tampons for 3 weeks but no mention of sex. Assume it would also be 3 weeks though.

So whether they do a GA or not will probably depend on factors personal to you and in my case it was the location of the polp. Now waiting for results.

39 Crissy { 02.22.15 at 6:24 am }

I am currently scheduled for a hysterscopy/polpectomy for his Thursday.. I had some irregular bleeding between my last period and after an ultrasound they confirmed I had two 2 cm polyps. Well, they are almost sure they are polyps. Anyway, I am now scheduled for this procedure in the hospital under GA. First surgery I’ve ever had. I have so much anxiety about not only being put under GA but also about the results of the pathology test one they are out. And even if they are polyps. I feel I am worrying myself sick, literally, and don’t know if I am going to panic once i’m in the OR. Feeling very nervous and afraid 🙁

40 Crissy { 02.26.15 at 9:32 pm }

Hello girls! So I don’t normally post on blogs like this but reading everyone’s words before my surgery made me feel so much better so I feel I should contribute to this blog. Well, my surgery was today at noon. I had two 2 cm polpys to be removed under GA in our patient surgery at the hospital. I was soooooo scared of being out under but really it was no big deal. I arrived, checked in, got asked a bunch of health questions, they started my IV (wasn’t that bad), the anesthesia came and told me I would be put under with GA and intubated. Now I got nervous as I sat and waiting for an hour to go into the OR. When it was time my nurse came and gave me something that felt like three shots of tequila (as she put it).. And it did! I wasnt nervous anymore as the rolled me into the OR. I was telling them about my job and bam I was in recovery before I knee it. I’m home now with not pain, no grogginess. Really I feel totally fine! I even had lunch on my way from from the hospital. So girls really its not bad try not to worry to much like I dod 🙂

41 Crissy { 02.26.15 at 9:34 pm }

Sorry about the miss spellings.. Autocorrect lol

42 Patti { 02.27.15 at 5:38 pm }

I need to have a hysteroscopy d&c for post-menopausal bleeding. Has anyone had to have this during menopause? If so, was there bleeding afterwards? I’m petrified as I have PTSD from childhood doctor visit situations which left me feeling extremely vulnerable and violated. I have serious white-coat phobia and do not go to doctors on a regular basis unless I need antibiotics for strep. I need to know exactly what’s going to happen before, during, and after…especially in a post-menopausal woman. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

43 Andrea { 03.02.15 at 12:55 am }

This is to thank all of the women who write comments for emotional support as we all know what it feels like to await this procedure. I am scheduled to have the hysterscopy and D and C on Wednesday, 3/4/15. I feel like I am going to expire as they informed me that I would have gen anesthesia. I would think I can handle this after having four colonoscopies, two with large polyps removed (my father died shortly after he had colon cancer) and I have been enjoying these procedures four so far since turning 40 — I am now 51 and while I just had one in July, I need another this year. That all being said, I had propefol? spelling? for those procedures and now the gen anesthesia (I am told with just a small piece in my mouth) is literally making me so nervous, I can barely think straight and I work full time. I am shaking when I stand up as well. I can handle the actual procedure and perhaps the pain as my threshold is high and I am quite stubborn; but protocol in the outpatient center is for the gen anesthesia. I am counting the minutes that I have left and any advice on the gen anesthesia helps….so thank you to those who wrote in that I may be OK. Next, I do have the cells without atypia, heavy bleeding, irregular periods and never ending as well. I leave on vacation this Sunday and hope that I will not be completely uncomfortable and bleeding more. My last period lasted over one month…..This is premenopause for me….I promise to let everyone know if I survive….I just hope I don’t collapse when I arrive from the stress!!!!! Counting the minutes and praying for good results…..I wish everyone luck too with their individual cases/experiences and thank you all. It is so helpful to have other women to hear from that can share the experience and the successful outcome. Hoping to stop shaking soon!!!! And to those that question the colonoscopy…..don’t wait until you are 50 and don’t wait 5-10 years in between!!!!!! I can say that from experience…….Time to try to relax. —Andrea

44 Deekash { 03.12.15 at 2:57 pm }

Hello Everyone.. I recently had my hysteroscopy followed by Endometrial ablation due to excess bleeding. in February and am still bleeding.my gynech says its due to depression and its suppose to happen this long,and its really getting unpleasant. whereas me and my husband feel the scopy wasn’t done correct.. we have been looking at few similar reports of hysteroscopy and endometrial ablation. If anyone of you could show me your medical report for hysterscopy and ablation on my id ( deekash18@gmail.com ) .I would be grateful.Please help.

45 lindsey { 03.15.15 at 1:57 am }

I had a histeroscopy to remove a polyp a month ago along with a laproscopy for some endometriosis and fibrods. I’ve been doing fertility drugs (but not this month ) and my period normally is 30 days. Im now on day 35 with abstaining from intercourse due to the procedure. Is this normal?

46 Ashley { 03.15.15 at 6:33 pm }

I told myself I would write on here after my procedure and experience. I had the hysteroscopy done this past Wed. It is now Sunday and I am experiencing some medium level cramps. Not sure if this is normal so re-reading this thread. I was terrified as well and this was the only site that made me feel a little better as well as give me an idea of what to expect. Here is my story:
Went in to doc for bad cramps and premenstrual bleeding. Been TTC since October with no luck and have been really good about timing (taking temps etc). Got off BC pills last July so know my body is adjusting a little bit. I am not very patient so went to doc this January 2015 and they did a vaginal ultrasound. It showed a dark mass and she thought it was a polyp which she said could prevent an egg from implanting, cause premenstrual bleeding and cramping. She scheduled the hysteroscopy for later in the month. I did the math and thought I could get in one more TTC session during ovulation window and still be okay to do surgery 14 days later because by then I would know if my period was coming or not. I judged wrong and when I went in for pre-op my period had still not come, thus resulting in her wanting to move the surgery out. She did not want to do surgery if there was ANY chance I could be pregnant. I assured her I was not b/c I could just feel my period coming on but she refused. I totally agree with that and it would be devestating to accidentally disrupt anything if I had been pregnant. SO, abstain from sex before the procedure, if they tell you, is my point . After rescheduling, I got my period the very next day. Of course, lol. Started to get bad anxiety leading up to procedure. Never have been put under before and had irrational fears that I would not wake up or she would screw up my uterus beyond repair. Again, bad anxiety. Husband drove me there. Wore a long maxi skirt which they said was perfect. I just had to lift it up for them to get to what they needed. They put me in a tiny room and the anesthesiologist (I butchered that spelling fo sho), came in and spoke to me first. THen my doctor. The worst part was the IV going in! After that was done, they walked me to the procedure room at the Rex Womens Center. I layed down and 4 different people came at me, hooking me up to this and that. Oh wait, I lied. The most painful part was the actual anesthesia going into my arm. It burned but with the help of some deep yoga breathing, I got through it and was out. Next thing I know, I am being rolled out of room in wheelchair. I instantly put my hand on my pelvic area and said “who put on my underwear for me”? It was hysterical to me at the time. I woke up talking about tacos apparently. Doc told me not to go eat tacos and eat light later in the day. I did not have much of an appetite. She said they removed a large fibroid instead of a polyp. I was groggy and did not ask as many questions as I should have. Should have written them down prior. Anyways, they took the IV out and rolled me out to the car where my husband had pulled up. I was a “fall risk” so they helped me in but I was okay to stand on my own. Called my sister to laugh a little together. Right when I woke up, I could feel a dull throb of pain in my uterus. To be expected. They prescibed me 800 mg ibuprofen and hydrocodone. I took the ibuprofen and layed in bed. ALternated b/w that and the hydrocodone. I was a little loopy rest of day but not in too much pain. They had administed somehting in the IV before I left for pain.
Slept the entire next day. Started to cramp more and bleeding. Finally felt normal 4 days after op but after being on my feet all morning, started to cramp and came home and laid down. Day 5 I felt no cramping in morning. Just some light bleeding. Around noon I started to cramp again and now I am laid up again. Going to call doc in am to make sure the cramping is normal. Going through about 2 pantyliners a day at this point. ONE last thing I will share is the pill they gave me the night before the procedure to soften my cervix. I recall one reader had horrendous cramps the night of. It is a suppository and I put it in around midnight the night before operation. Started to cramp mildly around 1. Fell asleep. Woke at 3 with worst cramps of my life. I get really bad cramps too and feel that I can handle them. No way. THis was AWFUL. I was laying on floor of bathroom wailing and the pain would not subside. I finally had my husband call after hours doc. They okayed me to take ibuprofen and to try and fish out the suppository (what was left of it anyways). I reached far and pulled that sucker out. After about an hour, the pain went from a 9 to a 4. Not sure why this happened to me and she said this is rare for someone to have so much pain from it. Just in case, ask the doc what to do in event you do experience bad cramps. Fingers crossed this “spring cleaning of my uterus” is just what we need to make a baby 🙂 Good luck to all of you!

47 zavh { 04.07.15 at 5:13 pm }

Hi. I am scheduled for a polyp removal and cyst removal. Its my first time and i am extremely scared and anxious. Any words of encouragement? What about the tabs i need to take the night before

48 JT { 04.28.15 at 12:16 pm }

Hi. I had a hysteroscopy and D&C 13 days ago. They removed several polyps. I am still having terrible pressure and pain when on my feet and sharp pains like where my ovaries are. I went to the grocery store last night for the first time since the procedure and I had to leave before I was finished. I couldn’t stand the pressure. I could hardly walk. I unloaded the car and went to the bathroom to find that I was bleeding again. Not a lot but still bleeding. Just the least amount of urine in my bladder makes me feel like my abdomen will burst. The seatbelt still hurts my abdomen. I don’t see any of these symptoms on the blog. Has anyone else had this problem? I am on an antibiotic but also still have a discharge that isn’t right. (the reason for the procedure in the first place was pressure, bleeding and the discharge) I just don’t know what to do. I just have to keep going back and running up all these bills. I don’t know why they cannot figure this out.
I am almost 55 and am on hormone therapy.

49 Maggie { 05.05.15 at 9:01 pm }

I put up with a whole lot of pain (and the other stuff; I’m sure all of you can fill in the blanks) before going to see an ob/gyn (I hadn’t been in 15+ years). I had been on the pill before to manage pain until 2007 (for about 10 years), when I had a severe clotting episode that got marked up to BC. I put up with more pain after that and went through secondary amenorrhea for awhile (some relief during that, but it wasn’t a healthy “cure, of course). When my period came back, it was like the pain also came back, but it was making up for lost time. I have an extreme aversion to ob/gyns, but I gave in.

Ultrasound revealed polyps, large and multiple ovarian cysts, and endometriosis-to-be-determined. So it’s D&C/hysterocopy Monday. This is the first site I’ve found that has any personal information (the post and the comments) that was helpful and reassuring– and really gave me an idea what to expect. I’m really glad I found this.

Pain isn’t really a problem, but it will be general anyway, both because it’s her preference and because of my own reasons. I’m new to this city and don’t really have anyone to get me to and from the hospital, so I’m hoping a taxi will be okay. I really don’t like prescription painkillers, but I’ll just see how that goes (I’m also not all that comfortable with potentially being unmindful because of them when I’m alone).

I am very worried about work. I don’t have an ultra-sympathetic manager (or coworkers), and I already know I’ll be out (it’s a bookstore– 8 hours of standing, walking, lifting boxes, etc.). I have other medical problems (stemming from another issue), and even appropriate documentation doesn’t convince them that I’m not missing work to– go to get my nails done? I have no idea what they’re thinking. I’m not feeling good about this.

I just really hope this goes smoothly and that the diagnostic part of the procedure doesn’t show any bonus surprises. She can’t move forward with treating the cysts (probably via implant) until this is dealt with. This blog has taken some of the edge off the dread and unknowns, though– so thanks.

50 jfree { 05.09.15 at 7:32 pm }

I will like to know if anyone have had uterine fibroid or uteriine polpy removed.if you won’t mind after these procedure was it successful to get pregnant .

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