HealthInfo Aoraki South Canterbury
Hysteroscopy
Whakamātaunga kōpū
A hysteroscopy is a procedure used to look inside your uterus (womb). In particular, it is used to look at the lining of the womb.
A hysteroscope is a narrow tube-like telescope with a camera and light at the end. A gynaecologist passes the hysteroscope through your vagina and the neck of your womb (cervix), into your uterus. They can then examine the inside of your uterus.
No cuts (incisions) are needed, and you are usually awake throughout the procedure. You can request sedation or an anaesthetic if you prefer to be asleep during the procedure.
The specialist can remove polyps or samples of the lining of the womb during the procedure.
You may have a hysteroscopy to investigate symptoms or treat different conditions, such as:
- abnormal vaginal bleeding or irregular periods
- fibroids
- problems getting pregnant (infertility)
- removal of an intrauterine device (IUD).
Your specialist will usually discuss the findings of the procedure before you leave hospital. But if samples have been sent to the laboratory, they may take some time to available. The specialist will arrange a follow up appointment to get the final results. This will either be with the specialist or your general practice team.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Te Whatu Ora – Hysteroscopy
Information about hysteroscopy. Includes how it is performed, the risks and what to expect afterwards.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed January 2025.
Review key: HIHYO-65539
