We then can look for fibroids, polyps, and other problems that may be causing bleeding. This often takes about a minute or two. The hysteroscope is removed. A small plastic tube may be used to take a sample of the lining of the uterus. By being very gentle, and using local anesthesia, there is usually minimal discomfort during hysteroscopy.
Most women are able to get up and return to their normal activities immediately.
If someone is very anxious, it is possible to give a short acting narcotic intravenously. This makes it very unlikely that the procedure will be uncomfortable. During operative hysteroscopy a type of hysteroscope is used that has channels in which it is possible to insert very thin instruments. These instruments can be used to remove polyps, to cut adhesions, and do other procedures. With the development of better and smaller instruments, I find that I am able to remove some polyps in addition to doing other procedures that used to require a full operating room.