Outpatient Hysteroscopy

Outpatient Hysteroscopy: Immediate Answers, Minimal Disruption

When you’re dealing with gynaecological symptoms like abnormal bleeding, getting clear answers quickly is the top priority. An Outpatient Hysteroscopy is the gold standard diagnostic tool that allows us to look directly inside your uterus in a simple, “see and treat” clinic appointment, without the need for general anaesthesia or a hospital stay.

At Happiher, we specialize in providing this vital procedure with a focus on your comfort and convenience. Dr. Manou Kaur’s expert, gentle technique ensures you can get the definitive diagnosis you need and get back to your day with minimal disruption.

What is an Outpatient Hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a very thin, lighted telescope called a hysteroscope. This tiny camera is gently passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus, sending a clear, magnified image to a monitor. This allows Dr. Kaur to see the lining of your womb (the endometrium) in real-time.

Performing this as an outpatient procedure means:

• You are awake and aware throughout.
• No general anaesthetic is required.
• The entire appointment, from consultation to completion, is done in a single clinic visit.
• You can drive and return to your normal activities immediately afterwards.

Why is an Outpatient Hysteroscopy Recommended?

This procedure is the fastest and most accurate way to investigate and diagnose a range of common gynaecological issues:

• Abnormal Bleeding: Including heavy periods, bleeding between cycles, and postmenopausal bleeding.
• Investigating Scan Findings: To get a direct look at suspected polyps, fibroids, or thickening of the uterine lining seen on an ultrasound.
• Fertility Investigations: To check the health and shape of the uterine cavity.
• Locating “Lost” Coil Threads: To find and remove an intrauterine coil if its threads are not visible.

The “See and Treat” Advantage

A major benefit of outpatient hysteroscopy is the ability to provide immediate treatment during the same appointment. If a small, simple issue is found, it can often be resolved on the spot. This includes:

• Taking a Biopsy: A small sample of the uterine lining can be taken for laboratory analysis if needed.
• Removing Small Polyps: Simple endometrial polyps can often be removed at the same time.
• Removing Adhesions (Scar Tissue): Minor bands of scar tissue can be divided.

This “see and treat” capability saves you the time, anxiety, and cost of booking a separate procedure in a hospital.

Your Patient Journey: A Focus on Comfort

We understand that you may be anxious about the procedure, and we are committed to making it as comfortable as possible.

1. The Consultation: We begin by discussing your symptoms and explaining every step of the procedure. We will not proceed until you are fully informed and comfortable.
2. The Procedure: You will lie on an examination couch, similar to having a smear test. The procedure is very quick, usually taking only 5-10 minutes in total. Dr. Kaur’s gentle and experienced technique minimizes discomfort. You may feel some period-like cramping as the hysteroscope is passed through the cervix, but this is brief.
3. Viewing the Results: You can watch the screen along with Dr. Kaur as she explains what she is seeing inside your uterus, giving you an immediate understanding of your health.
4. Immediate Recovery: You can get dressed and go home as soon as the procedure is finished. There is no downtime required.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is an outpatient hysteroscopy painful?
   For most women, the procedure is very manageable. The main sensation is a cramping feeling, similar to a strong period pain, which lasts for only a minute or two. We recommend taking simple pain relief (like ibuprofen) an hour before your appointment to minimize this.
2. Is it better than having it done under general anaesthetic?
   For purely diagnostic purposes or for simple “see and treat” procedures, the outpatient approach is much more convenient. It avoids the risks and recovery time associated with general anaesthesia. If a more complex issue (like a large fibroid) is found, a separate inpatient procedure under anaesthesia may then be planned.
3. Will I bleed afterwards?
   It is normal to have some light spotting or a watery discharge for a few days after the procedure. We advise using sanitary pads instead of tampons.
4. When can I resume normal activities?
   Immediately. You can drive, return to work, and carry on with your day. We recommend avoiding sexual intercourse for a week to reduce the small risk of infection.

Get Clear Answers Without the Wait

There is no need to live with the uncertainty of unexplained symptoms. An outpatient hysteroscopy offers a path to a swift, definitive diagnosis.