What Hysteroscopy Preparation Do I Need?
If you’re scheduled for a hysteroscopy, take your hysteroscopy preparation seriously and learn what to expect during your short recovery. At Hysteroscopy Center of New York, Dr. Felix Cohen and his team of experts provide clear hysteroscopy preparation steps and detailed hysteroscopy recovery guidelines so you can know exactly what to expect before, during and after your hysteroscopy.
Hysteroscopy preparation happens over several steps that help your doctor decide on the best possible treatment for you. Your hysteroscopy preparation steps include:
- Schedule the procedure. Dr. Cohen recommends you schedule the procedure a day after your period ends and just before your ovulation starts. This timing provides a clear view of your uterine cavity. Your gynecologist offers you a pregnancy test on the day of the procedure. If positive, he cancels or postpones the procedure until further notice, as you risk damaging the developing baby.
- Arrange anesthesia. If you’re having an office hysteroscopy, you’re usually given local anesthesia. If you’re in for a complex hysteroscopy for the removal of fibroids or polyps, you may need heavier sedation.
- Pain management. Depending on your medical history and pain level tolerance, Dr. Cohen may recommend taking over-the-counter painkillers a few hours before the procedure to minimize any discomfort. If, during your consultation, you’ve decided to go with general anesthesia, don’t take painkillers unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
If your procedure involves local anesthesia, you may continue with a regular diet and fasting. On the day of your procedure, you meet with Dr. Cohen to discuss the procedure, the pain you may be having and your insurance and financing options.
What Are Common Hysteroscopy Recovery Instructions?
While you may return to your daily activities the same day, it’s normal to feel period-like cramping and bleeding a few days following the procedure as part of your hysteroscopy recovery process. With one in three women experiencing severe pain during operative hysteroscopy, you may feel pain even after the anesthesia wears off. After your procedure, it’s recommended you avoid things like:
- Sexual intercourse until your doctor tells you it’s OK
- Long baths for at least seven to 14 days
- Vaginal douching until your uterus completely heals
Stay well hydrated to flush the anesthesia from your system and support your recovery process. Additionally, stay clear of tampons; use sanitary pads instead to track the bleeding and lower the risk of infection.
“If you’re still in pain during your recovery, I recommend over-the-counter painkillers,” says Dr. Cohen, “but only after you come in for a consultation. I have to decide on the dosage, and that depends on your medical history, pain level and clinical evaluation after the procedure.”
Dr. Cohen, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, offers a thorough consultation before your procedure. To learn more about hysteroscopy preparation steps and hysteroscopy recovery instructions, schedule a consultation at Hysteroscopy Center of New York at one of their three locations: Midtown Manhattan, Columbus Circle and Queens.