Hysteroscopy

Why It Is Done

A hysteroscopy may be done to:

• Find the cause of abnormal bleeding. Your doctor can pass heated tools through the hysteroscope to stop the bleeding.
• Find the cause of bleeding after menopause.
• See whether a problem in the shape or size of the uterus or if scar tissue in the uterus is the cause of infertility.
• Look at the uterine openings to the fallopian tubes. If the tubes are blocked, your doctor may be able to open the tubes with special tools passed through the hysteroscope.
• Find the possible cause of repeated miscarriages. Other tests may also be done.
• Find and reposition a misplaced intrauterine device (IUD).
• Find and remove small fibroids or polyps.
• Use heated tools to remove problem areas in the lining of the uterus (endometrial ablation).
• Place a contraceptive implant (Essure) into the opening of the fallopian tubes as a method of permanent sterilization.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: February 22, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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