A hysteroscopy is a common gynecological procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of the uterus. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a thin, lighted tube with a camera, called a hysteroscope, into the uterine cavity. It is used to both diagnose and treat a range of conditions. Doctors often recommend a hysteroscopy to investigate abnormal uterine bleeding, such as heavy or irregular periods, or bleeding after menopause. It can also identify and remove uterine fibroids or polyps, or explore causes of infertility or recurrent miscarriages.
Expected Post-Procedure Bleeding
After a hysteroscopy, some vaginal bleeding or spotting is typical. This usually appears as light, pinkish, or brown discharge, and can be watery. While often light, it may occasionally be heavier than a normal menstrual period and can stop and start intermittently. The duration of this post-procedure bleeding varies, commonly lasting a few days up to a week. Some individuals might experience spotting for a longer period, ranging from 7 to 10 days, or even up to two to three weeks. For diagnostic hysteroscopies, bleeding typically resolves within one to two days.
Factors Influencing Bleeding Duration
The duration of bleeding after a hysteroscopy is influenced by the nature of the procedure performed. When the hysteroscopy is purely diagnostic, meaning it only involves visualization, bleeding tends to be minimal and short-lived. However, if the procedure is operative, involving the removal of growths like polyps or fibroids, or other surgical interventions, it can result in slightly more bleeding and discomfort. More extensive procedures, involving greater manipulation inside the uterus, may lead to a longer period of light bleeding. Each individual’s healing process also contributes to how quickly bleeding subsides.
Other Post-Hysteroscopy Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Beyond bleeding, individuals may experience other common symptoms following a hysteroscopy. Mild cramping, similar to menstrual pain, is frequently reported and can persist for a few days. A clear or watery discharge is also normal and might continue for up to two weeks after the procedure. Some people might experience mild discomfort or, if gas was used during the procedure, a sensation of fullness in the abdomen or shoulder pain.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain that worsens or is not relieved by painkillers. Heavy vaginal bleeding, such as soaking one or more sanitary pads per hour for several consecutive hours, or passing large blood clots, is a concerning symptom. A fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) or any foul-smelling vaginal discharge could indicate an infection and requires prompt evaluation. To help prevent infection during recovery, it is generally advised to use sanitary pads instead of tampons and to avoid sexual intercourse for at least seven days, or until all bleeding has stopped. Additionally, avoiding baths, hot tubs, or swimming for up to two weeks can help prevent bacteria from entering the uterus.