How to prepare for a hysteroscopy: questions to ask

A hysteroscopy is a short procedure that lets your doctor look inside your uterus with a thin, lighted camera called a hysteroscope, inserted through your vagina and cervix with no incisions. It is used to diagnose and treat problems such as abnormal bleeding, polyps, fibroids, scar tissue, and fertility concerns. Because preparation and recovery differ depending on whether the procedure is done in an office or an operating room, the most useful thing you can do is arrive with specific questions. This guide walks through what to ask, how to prepare, and what to expect afterward.

Start with the basics: why and what type

Before you consent, you should understand the purpose and scope of the procedure. Ask:

• Why is this hysteroscopy being recommended for me?
• Is this a diagnostic hysteroscopy, an operative hysteroscopy, or both?
• If you find something abnormal, will you treat it during the same procedure?
• What are the risks, benefits, and alternatives in my case?

Diagnostic hysteroscopy identifies structural irregularities in the uterus, while operative hysteroscopy treats an abnormality found during the exam. Your provider may perform both at the same time, which can avoid a second procedure. Knowing which one is planned helps you understand the expected duration and recovery.

Preparation questions to ask

Preparation varies by setting. An in-office hysteroscopy often requires no advance fasting, while one performed in an operating room typically requires you to stop eating and drinking at midnight the night before. Ask your care team:

• Will my procedure be in the office or an operating room?
• Do I need to fast, and for how long?
• Should I take my regular medicines the day of the procedure?
• Do I need to stop any medications, such as blood thinners, beforehand?
• Do I need to avoid douching, tampons, or vaginal medicines before the procedure?
• Will I need someone to drive me home?

General guidance from health systems includes scheduling the procedure when you are not having your period, since this gives a clearer view of the uterus and avoids doing the test when you could be pregnant. You may be asked not to douche, use tampons, or use vaginal medicines for 24 hours before the hysteroscopy. If you are having anesthesia, arrange for someone to drive you home, because anesthesia and pain medicine can make it unsafe to drive yourself.

For an in-office hysteroscopy, some clinics recommend taking 800 mg of ibuprofen one hour before the exam with food to help with cramping afterward, and eating a light snack within one to two hours of the procedure rather than arriving fasting. Follow the specific instructions your own provider gives you, since they know your history.

Day-of and recovery questions to ask

Knowing what to expect afterward reduces anxiety. Ask:

• What will I feel during the procedure, and what type of anesthesia or pain relief will I receive?
• How long will the procedure take?
• What should I expect afterward, including bleeding, cramps, and discharge?
• When can I return to work, exercise, or strenuous activity?
• What warning signs mean I should call you or seek urgent care?

A hysteroscopy is usually quick, lasting about 10 to 30 minutes, and most people go home the same day. Afterward, you may have period-like bleeding, cramps, and pain for a few days. Most people do not need pain medication or narcotics after the procedure, and you should get extra rest the day of your procedure and avoid strenuous activities. If you develop a high temperature, severe pain, or heavy bleeding after your hysteroscopy, seek medical advice immediately.

A practical checklist to bring to your appointment

• Write down your top three questions and hand them to your provider.
• List all medicines and supplements you take, including natural health products.
• Confirm the procedure location, arrival time, and fasting instructions.
• Confirm whether you need a driver.
• Ask for written aftercare instructions and a phone number for questions.
• Ask when you will get results, especially if a biopsy is taken.

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Test your knowledge

A hysteroscopy is a procedure that uses a small camera to look inside your uterus to diagnose or treat problems. Before you go, it helps to know the basics.