What should you know about hysteroscopic resection of septum?

A uterine septum is a band of tissue that divides part of the womb. During hysteroscopy, a thin camera enters through the vagina and cervix so the surgeon can see the uterine cavity. A small cutting instrument then divides or removes the septum while preserving the surrounding uterine muscle as much as possible.

The procedure is commonly discussed in relation to repeated pregnancy loss, difficulty becoming pregnant, or a septum found during fertility assessment, although the reason for treatment depends on your history and imaging. It is different from surgery for a tumour and does not by itself indicate cancer.

You may receive a general anaesthetic or another form of anaesthesia. Many people go home the same day, but the plan depends on the extent of the procedure, your health, and the advice of the treating team. Mild cramping and light bleeding can occur afterward.

Before the procedure, tell the team about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, previous operations, and the possibility of pregnancy. Follow the fasting and medication instructions you are given, and arrange transport if sedation or anaesthesia is planned.

Afterward, use only the pain relief and other medicines recommended for you. Follow instructions about bathing, sex, tampons, exercise, and returning to work. Keep the follow-up appointment: the clinician may review symptoms, healing, and whether further assessment is needed before trying to conceive.

Contact your surgical team promptly for bleeding that is heavy or increasing, severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, chills, faintness, new vomiting, or discharge with an unpleasant smell. Seek urgent help for collapse, trouble breathing, or severe pain that does not improve with the prescribed plan.

Do not wait for a routine appointment if you are worried about a new symptom after the procedure. The team can distinguish expected recovery symptoms from infection, bleeding, or another complication and tell you where to be assessed.

Ask what the scan shows, why resection is being recommended, which anaesthetic is planned, and whether a sample will be sent for laboratory examination. You can also ask when normal activities and pregnancy planning may resume, what symptoms should trigger a call, and whether you need a follow-up scan or hysteroscopy.