Who Performs Hysteroscopy: Your Complete Guide to the Procedure, Providers, and What to Expect
If your healthcare provider has recommended a hysteroscopy, or if you’re researching your options for abnormal uterine bleeding or other gynecologic concerns in Downers Grove, IL, understanding who performs this procedure and what it involves can help you feel more confident and prepared. A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to both diagnose and treat a range of conditions inside the uterus, and knowing what to expect makes a real difference. This guide covers who is qualified to perform hysteroscopy, the difference between diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy, when you might need a hysteroscopy, what the procedure involves, and how to prepare.
If you’d like to discuss your options with a specialist, contact MAIA Gynecology at (630) 320-6703.
Who Performs a Hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is performed by a gynecologist or, more specifically, a physician with specialized training in gynecologic procedures. Board-certified OB/GYNs are the most common providers to perform hysteroscopy, and those with additional training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery may perform more complex operative cases.
Not every gynecologist performs all types of hysteroscopy. Simple diagnostic hysteroscopy may be offered in an office or outpatient setting by experienced gynecologists. More involved operative procedures are typically performed by physicians with focused experience in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, often in an outpatient procedure center or operating room.
When selecting a healthcare provider for hysteroscopy, it’s reasonable to ask about their specific training, the volume of procedures they perform, and where the procedure will take place in. A provider who regularly performs hysteroscopy will be better equipped to manage the procedure efficiently and respond to any variations that arise. At MAIA Gynecology, our board-certified physicians are Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) with experience in hysteroscopic evaluation and treatment.
What Is a Diagnostic Hysteroscopy?
A diagnostic hysteroscopy is used to examine the inside of the uterus and identify an underlying condition causing symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or fertility problems. It serves as a valuable diagnostic tool when other diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound, have not provided a complete picture.
During this type of hysteroscopy, your healthcare provider uses an instrument called a hysteroscope, a thin, lighted tube, to view the uterine cavity directly. The hysteroscope is passed gently through the vagina and cervix, allowing a clear view of the uterine lining without the need for incisions. Your provider can then observe the tissue and identify issues such as uterine polyps, fibroids, intrauterine scarring, or other abnormalities.
Diagnostic hysteroscopy can also be used to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis, helping to rule out or confirm conditions that may be contributing to symptoms. This direct visualization makes hysteroscopy one of the most accurate ways to diagnose and evaluate concerns inside the uterus, and it frequently guides decisions about next steps in care.
Understanding an Operative Hysteroscopy
Operative hysteroscopy goes a step further than diagnostic hysteroscopy; rather than only visualizing the uterus, it allows a qualified healthcare provider to treat problems identified during the examination. In many cases, your provider can diagnose and treat a condition during the same procedure, reducing the need for a second surgery.
Common Conditions Treated with an Operative Hysteroscopy
An operative hysteroscopy can be used to treat abnormal uterine bleeding, remove polyps, address fibroid tumors located inside the uterus, and correct intrauterine scarring, also known as Asherman’s syndrome. It may also be used for endometrial ablation, a procedure that treats the uterine lining to reduce or eliminate heavy bleeding or to remove a displaced intrauterine device.
During operative hysteroscopy, small surgical instruments are passed through the hysteroscope channel, allowing your provider to perform treatment through the same flexible tube used for visualization. Because the procedure works through the natural openings of the vagina and cervix rather than through incisions, recovery is typically shorter than with traditional open surgery.
Hysteroscopy Polypectomy
One of the more common operations using a hysteroscope is a hysteroscopy polypectomy. This procedure involves the removal of uterine polyps. Polyps are growths on the uterine lining that can contribute to abnormal bleeding and, in some cases, fertility concerns. Removing them through operative hysteroscopy is a well-established, minimally invasive approach that generally does not require a hospital stay.
When You Might Need a Hysteroscopy
You may need a hysteroscopy if you are experiencing symptoms that point to a problem inside the uterus. Your healthcare provider may recommend this procedure if you’re struggling with the following concerns:
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the most frequent reasons a provider recommends hysteroscopy. This includes heavy vaginal bleeding, irregular cycles, bleeding between periods, or uterine bleeding that occurs after menopause. When other diagnostic tests have not identified the cause, hysteroscopy allows direct visualization and, if needed, immediate treatment.
Suspected Fibroids or Polyps
If imaging suggests fibroids or polyps inside the uterine cavity, hysteroscopy can confirm their presence and allow your provider to treat them during the same visit. Fibroid tumors and uterine polyps are both associated with abnormal bleeding and, in some situations, discomfort or fertility concerns.
Fertility and Reproductive Concerns
Your provider may recommend hysteroscopy if you have experienced repeated miscarriages or difficulty becoming pregnant, as structural issues inside the uterus, such as scar tissue, polyps, or a uterine septum, can sometimes contribute to fertility problems. Identifying and addressing these findings through hysteroscopy may be a step in a broader fertility evaluation.
Severe Abdominal Pain or Other Unexplained Symptoms
In some situations, severe abdominal pain or other unexplained gynecologic symptoms may prompt a closer look at the uterus. A physical exam and medical history review will help your healthcare provider determine whether hysteroscopy is an appropriate next step alongside other evaluations.
What the Hysteroscopy Procedure Involves
Understanding what happens during a hysteroscopy can help reduce anxiety about the procedure. The process is generally straightforward and, for many patients, completed in an outpatient setting.
Before the Procedure
Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and may perform a pelvic exam before scheduling a hysteroscopy. You may be asked to avoid certain medications that affect blood clotting in the days before the procedure. Your provider will also discuss anesthesia options with you, which may include local anesthesia, regional anesthesia, or general anesthesia, depending on the type of hysteroscopy and your individual circumstances.
During the Procedure
On the day of the procedure, your provider gently opens the cervix slightly to allow the hysteroscope to pass through. A liquid or gas is used to gently expand the uterus, allowing a clear view of the uterine lining and vaginal walls. The lighted tube transmits images so your provider can examine the uterine cavity in detail and, if performing an operative hysteroscopy, use surgical instruments to diagnose and treat identified concerns.
After the Procedure
Most patients are able to go home the same day. Light bleeding or spotting and mild cramping are common in the hours and days following the procedure. Most patients are advised to avoid intercourse and strenuous activity for about two weeks, though individual recovery timelines vary. Your provider will discuss any specific aftercare instructions and when to expect follow-up communication. As with any surgical procedure, complications can occur, and your provider will explain potential risks as part of the informed consent process.
Hysteroscopy as a Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Procedure
Hysteroscopy is considered a minimally invasive procedure because it does not require external incisions. By working through the body’s natural openings, an experienced healthcare provider can diagnose and treat conditions inside the uterus without the longer recovery associated with open surgery. This makes hysteroscopy a well-tolerated option for many patients compared to other procedures that require larger incisions or a longer hospital stay.
For patients dealing with uterine bleeding, fibroids or polyps, or unexplained fertility concerns, a hysteroscopy can provide answers and relief through a single procedure. That said, whether hysteroscopy is the right choice depends on your individual situation, and your healthcare provider will consider your full clinical picture before making a recommendation.
Why Choose MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL
When it comes to hysteroscopy and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, the experience and approach of your healthcare provider matter. At MAIA Gynecology, Dr. Karen Wolowick, Dr. Susan Mitchell, Dr. Colleen Skay, and Ashley Cox, PA-C bring board-certified expertise and fellowship affiliation with ACOG to every patient interaction. The team is known for taking the time to listen, clearly explaining each step of a procedure, and ensuring you feel supported before, during, and after your care.
MAIA Gynecology serves patients throughout Downers Grove, Naperville, Westmont, and the surrounding Chicago suburbs. Rather than a large hospital system environment, patients at MAIA experience one-on-one attention in a welcoming setting. Our practice combines evidence-based medicine with a personalized approach that puts your questions and concerns at the center of every visit.
If you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding, have questions about fibroids or polyps, or want to understand whether hysteroscopy may be appropriate for your situation, our team at MAIA Gynecology can help guide you with clear, honest, and exceptional care. Call us at (630) 320-6703 or visit us online to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hysteroscopy
Is hysteroscopy performed in a doctor’s office or a hospital?
The setting depends on the type of hysteroscopy and your individual needs. Diagnostic hysteroscopy is often performed in an office or outpatient procedure center. Operative hysteroscopy may be performed in an operating room or an ambulatory surgery center. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate setting based on the type of procedure planned, your medical history, and the anesthesia option selected.
How long does a hysteroscopy procedure typically take?
A straightforward diagnostic hysteroscopy often takes between 10 and 30 minutes, while an operative hysteroscopy may take longer depending on the condition being treated. Your provider will give you a more specific estimate based on your individual situation during your consultation. Total time at the facility will be longer to account for preparation, anesthesia, and a brief recovery period before you go home.
Will I feel pain during or after hysteroscopy?
Many patients feel mild to moderate cramping during and after the procedure, similar to menstrual discomfort. Your provider will discuss anesthesia and comfort options with you beforehand to determine the best approach for your individual needs. Most patients find that any discomfort following the procedure is manageable and improves within a day or two.
Can hysteroscopy affect my ability to become pregnant?
In many cases, hysteroscopy, particularly when used to remove polyps, fibroid tumors, or scar tissue, is intended to support reproductive health rather than interfere with it. However, the impact on fertility depends on your specific diagnosis and what is found or treated during the procedure. Your healthcare provider is the best resource for discussing how hysteroscopy fits into your individual fertility considerations.
What is the difference between hysteroscopy and endometrial ablation?
Hysteroscopy is the procedure used to access and visualize the inside of the uterus. Endometrial ablation is a specific treatment performed using hysteroscopic guidance that destroys the uterine lining to reduce or eliminate heavy bleeding. Not all hysteroscopy involves ablation; endometrial ablation is one treatment option that may be appropriate for certain patients with heavy uterine bleeding who do not wish to become pregnant in the future. Your provider will help you understand which treatment options align with your goals.
How soon can I return to normal activities after a hysteroscopy?
Most patients return to light daily activities within one to two days following a diagnostic hysteroscopy. Recovery from operative hysteroscopy may take a bit longer, and most providers recommend avoiding intercourse and strenuous physical activity for approximately two weeks. We will give you specific guidance based on your procedure and overall health.
Does insurance typically cover hysteroscopy?
Insurance coverage for hysteroscopy depends on your individual plan and the clinical indication for the procedure. Diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy performed to evaluate or treat a medical condition is often covered in part by insurance, but coverage varies widely. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly and discussing any financial questions with our team during your consultation. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs should always be confirmed before scheduling.
Take the Next Step with MAIA Gynecology
You now have a thorough understanding of who performs hysteroscopy, how diagnostic hysteroscopy and operative hysteroscopy differ, when you might need a hysteroscopy, and what the procedure involves from preparation through recovery. If you’re experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, have been told you may have fibroids or polyps, or want to speak with a qualified healthcare provider about your gynecologic health in Downers Grove, IL, MAIA Gynecology is here to help. Contact us at (630) 320-6703 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation and receive the personalized, evidence-based care you deserve.