Hysteroscopy for Infertility Evaluation at Minnerva Clinic

Infertility evaluations often begin with basic tests. However, even when hormones, ovulation patterns, and semen analysis results are normal, the uterus itself may sometimes be the subtle factor affecting conception or maintaining a pregnancy. This is where hysteroscopy becomes an invaluable tool.

Hysteroscopy allows us to:

• See the shape of the uterus: The uterus should ideally have a smooth, triangular shape inside to allow for proper embryo implantation and growth. Hysteroscopy helps us identify any congenital (present from birth) abnormalities in the uterine shape, such as a septum (a wall dividing the uterus), which can increase the risk of miscarriage or difficulty implanting.
• Check for polyps, fibroids, or adhesions: These are common growths or scar tissues that can silently affect fertility.
  • Uterine polyps: Small, benign growths on the uterine lining that can act like an IUD, preventing implantation.
  • Submucosal fibroids: Fibroids that bulge into the uterine cavity, potentially distorting the lining and interfering with embryo attachment.
  • Adhesions (Asherman's Syndrome): Scar tissue inside the uterus, often from previous surgeries or infections, that can reduce the healthy uterine lining available for implantation or even block the uterine cavity.
• Confirm if the lining is smooth and healthy for implantation: A healthy, uniform uterine lining is crucial for an embryo to attach and grow. Hysteroscopy gives us a direct visual confirmation of the lining's quality, texture, and vascularity.
• Remove small growths or adhesions in the same sitting (if needed): One of the biggest advantages of hysteroscopy is its ability to be both diagnostic and operative. If small polyps, certain types of fibroids, or mild adhesions are identified during the procedure, they can often be gently removed right then and there, without needing a separate surgery. This immediate intervention can save time and significantly improve your chances of conception.

By directly visualizing the uterine cavity, hysteroscopy provides a level of detail that other imaging methods might miss, helping to pinpoint the specific uterine factors contributing to infertility.

Understanding what to expect during a hysteroscopy can help ease any anxieties. At Minnerva Clinic, we perform this delicate procedure with precision and a gentle approach, ensuring your comfort and clarity.

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how the procedure works:

• Done as a day-care, short procedure: Hysteroscopy for infertility evaluation is typically an outpatient procedure. This means you will come to our clinic or hospital for the procedure and usually go home on the very same day, often within a few hours of recovery.
• No cuts – a thin camera (hysteroscope) is inserted gently through the cervix: One of the key benefits of hysteroscopy is its minimally invasive nature. There are no external incisions or stitches on your abdomen. Instead, a very thin, lighted tube with a tiny camera at its tip (the hysteroscope) is gently inserted through your vagina, past your cervix, and directly into your uterus.
• The uterus is viewed directly on a screen: As the hysteroscope is advanced, your doctor will be able to see a magnified, high-definition image of the inside of your uterine cavity directly on a monitor. This allows for a detailed examination of the uterine lining, the openings of the fallopian tubes, and the overall shape of the uterus.
• Gentle distension of the uterus: To get a clear view, a sterile saline solution (saltwater) is usually gently introduced into the uterus through the hysteroscope. This helps to gently expand the uterine walls, providing a clear working space for examination.
• If something is found (like a polyp or mild scarring), it can be removed immediately: This is the "operative" aspect of hysteroscopy. If small polyps, certain types of fibroids (submucosal), or mild to moderate scar tissue (adhesions) are identified during the diagnostic phase, your doctor can often use tiny, specialized instruments passed through the hysteroscope to gently remove or correct these issues during the same procedure. This saves you from needing a separate surgical intervention.
• Takes about 15–30 minutes, under light anesthesia or sedation: The actual time spent performing the hysteroscopy itself is usually quite brief, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. To ensure your comfort, the procedure is performed under light anesthesia or sedation, meaning you'll be relaxed or lightly asleep and won't feel any pain during the process.

Our skilled team, led by Dr. Pragya Gupta, focuses on a precise and gentle technique, minimizing discomfort and maximizing the diagnostic and therapeutic benefits of the hysteroscopy.

It's natural to have concerns about discomfort or risks when considering any medical procedure, especially one related to fertility. We want to assure you that hysteroscopy for infertility evaluation is generally a well-tolerated and safe procedure.

• Most women feel no pain during the procedure due to light anesthesia or sedation: We prioritize your comfort. Whether you receive mild sedation or light general anesthesia, you will be relaxed or lightly asleep and will not feel pain during the hysteroscopy itself. Our medical team continuously monitors your vital signs to ensure your safety and comfort.
• Mild discomfort afterward: Once the anesthesia wears off, you might experience some minor side effects:
  • Minor spotting: Light vaginal spotting or a small amount of bleeding is common for 1–2 days after the procedure as your uterus heals.
  • Cramping: You may feel mild, period-like cramping for a day or two. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Most women go home the same day and rest for 1–2 days: Hysteroscopy is an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll typically be discharged within a few hours after recovery. We recommend taking it easy for a day or two, avoiding strenuous activities, to allow your body to recuperate.
• The uterus recovers quickly, and pregnancy planning can resume soon: The recovery period for hysteroscopy is generally swift. Your doctor will advise you on the specific timeline for resuming fertility treatments or trying to conceive naturally, which is often within a menstrual cycle or two.
• Low risks: Hysteroscopy is considered a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. Very rare potential risks include infection, excessive bleeding, or a small perforation of the uterus. These risks are openly discussed during your consultation, and our experienced team takes every precaution to minimize them.

Our focus is on ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the entire hysteroscopy process, so you can concentrate on your fertility journey with confidence.