How does hysteroscopic polypectomy work?

A hysteroscope is gently passed through the vagina and cervix into the womb. Fluid opens the cavity so the clinician can see the lining and locate the polyp. A small cutting or grasping instrument passed through the hysteroscope removes the growth, and the tissue may be sent for laboratory examination. Cervical polyps and endometrial polyps are different locations, so your clinician will confirm where the polyp is and what treatment is suitable.

The procedure may use local anaesthetic, sedation or a general anaesthetic depending on the setting and your needs. It is often planned as day care, but the exact arrangement depends on the size and position of the polyp and your health.

Tell the clinic about pregnancy possibility, medicines and allergies. Follow instructions about eating, drinking and stopping or continuing medicines. Afterward, mild cramping and light bleeding can occur. Use only the pain relief and menstrual products recommended by your care team, rest as needed, and follow advice about intercourse, swimming and strenuous activity. Keep your follow-up appointment to discuss the tissue result and whether symptoms have improved.

Contact the clinic if pain is increasing, bleeding is becoming heavy, you develop a fever, or vaginal discharge smells unpleasant. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, fainting, breathing difficulty or heavy bleeding with weakness.

Ask where the polyp is located, which anaesthetic is planned, whether the tissue will be examined, when results are expected, and how soon you can resume normal activities.