After this, you will be taken to your room or comfortable area where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home.
You will almost certainly be able to go home a few hours after the procedure but you’ll need someone to collect you as you’ll be feeling drowsy.
Pain relief
Following the procedure, you may have slight period-like cramps, as well as “referred pain” in the tip of your shoulders – caused by the gas or fluid used to inflate the womb. This usually disappears within 48 hours. You may also have some vaginal bleeding for a few days. If you need them, continue taking painkillers as advised by your hospital.
We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.
End result
Before you go home you will be given a telephone number for the hospital, in case you need to ask for any further advice. You may also be given a date for a follow-up appointment with your consultant to check on your progress and to discuss any further treatment that may be required.
Follow your surgeon’s advice about resuming your usual activities. You will probably be able to go back to work within a few days, but this depends on the exact treatment you have had. A full recovery can take up to seven days.
Sexual intercourse may be resumed as soon as you feel ready, or as advised by your surgeon. You should continue to use your usual form of contraception unless otherwise advised.
Looking after you
Even once you’ve left hospital, we’re still here for you.
Most women don't experience any problems after a hysteroscopy, however as with all medical treatments complications can occur. It’s possible to develop pelvic infection afterwards, requiring treatment with antibiotics.
Very rarely, the womb can be perforated or damaged during the hysteroscopy. This can lead to bleeding and infection, and may require further surgery or, in very rare cases, a hysterectomy. Your consultant will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.
If you experience any of these symptoms please call us straight away:
- prolonged heavy bleeding
- dark or unpleasant vaginal discharge
- severe pain or pain that lasts for more than 48 hours
- fever or high temperature.
If you have any questions or concerns, we’re ready to help.