Hysteroscopy Procedure for Fertility Treatment

Hysteroscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses a thin tube with a camera to look inside your uterus. It helps diagnose and treat issues in the uterus, like fibroids or adhesions, which can cause problems such as bleeding or infertility.

There are two types of hysteroscopy:

1. Diagnostic Hysteroscopy: Used to find and diagnose problems in the uterus, especially after other fertility tests.
2. Operative Hysteroscopy: Involves treating issues found during diagnostic hysteroscopy or other tests.

Why is Hysteroscopy Done?

It’s done to:

• Diagnose and treat various uterine conditions.
• Remove fibroids or polyps causing fertility issues.
• Address scar tissue (adhesions) that can lead to infertility or heavy periods.
• Fix a septate uterus to reduce the risk of miscarriage.
• Manage abnormal bleeding by identifying and treating its cause.

Procedure:

1. Positioning: Lie down with leg supports, similar to a regular gynecological exam.
2. Speculum Insertion: A speculum may be used to keep the cervix open.
3. Antiseptic Solution: Clean the cervix and vagina.
4. Hysteroscope Introduction: The thin tube with a light and camera is passed through the cervix.
5. Fluid Injection: Gently inject fluid into the uterus for better visibility.
6. Image Transmission: Images go to a monitor for the doctor to examine.
7. Detection of Abnormalities: Identify and, if possible, address issues during the procedure.

Hysteroscopy and IVF

Used to evaluate infertility issues, ensuring a healthy uterus and optimal conditions for embryo implantation. Large fibroids may be managed before starting IVF.

Advantages

• Diagnose and treat issues in one go.
• Precise and minimally invasive.
• Less risk to surrounding tissues.

Risks

• Anesthesia-related issues.
• Infection (rare).
• Cervical damage (rare).
• Discomfort from gas or fluid.
• Rare organ damage.

Complications

• Anesthetic reaction (rare).
• Heavy bleeding (uncommon).
• Pulmonary edema (rare).
• Uterine perforation (rare).
• Uterine injury (rare).
• Scarring of uterine tissues (slight risk).
• Infection (uncommon).

Hysteroscopy Cost in India

Varies from INR 5,000 to INR 50,000. Check insurance coverage.

Recovery is usually fast, and most can resume daily activities within two days. Hysteroscopy before IVF can improve success rates.