About hysteroscopy and D&C
Hysteroscopy is a short procedure that allows us to look inside your uterus (womb) with a slim telescopic camera.
We may remove small polyps (skin growths) and send them to a laboratory for testing. Sometimes we also perform a D&C (dilatation and curettage) to remove tissue from the uterus. We send this sample for testing.
After your procedure
For 2 weeks or until bleeding stops
- Do not use tampons.
- Do not have sexual intercourse.
Avoid these because they can increase the risk of infection, following your procedure.
You can expect the following after your procedure.
- You may experience slight abdominal cramps, which will feel similar to period pains. If we have given you painkillers, take them as prescribed, if needed.
- You may have some vaginal bleeding, but it should be no heavier than a moderate period.
- This bleeding and cramping can take up to 2 weeks to resolve and should gradually improve during this time.
- You may need to rest for a few days, before returning to work.
- Most people feel back to normal after 3 to 4 days.
When to seek medical help
Call the Day Surgery Unit advice line (see Contacts below), if you experience any of the following:
- increasing pain which does not go away with painkillers
- increasing or heavy bleeding
- offensive discharge
- fever
- pain in your lower legs.
Contact information
Day Surgery Unit Advice Line, Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm
Out of hours and weekends, calls diverted to Kingston Hospital Alex Ward
NHS emergency and urgent care service, call 111
You can also contact your GP or come to the Kingston Hospital Emergency Department (A&E)