What should you know about hysteroscopy for a septate uterus?

A uterine septum is a band of tissue that divides part of the uterine cavity. It is a structural difference present from development, rather than a growth caused by something you did. Some people have no symptoms; others are assessed because of pregnancy loss, fertility concerns or findings on imaging.

Hysteroscopy lets the clinician view the cavity from inside. When treatment is appropriate, operative hysteroscopy can use fine instruments to divide the septum through the cervix. The best approach depends on the septum's size, shape and depth, as well as your reproductive plans and other findings.

Ask how the septum was identified and whether further imaging is needed to understand the outside shape of the uterus as well as the cavity. Discuss whether hysteroscopic treatment is recommended for your situation, what pain control is planned, and whether treatment is expected in one procedure or requires follow-up.

Tell the team about pregnancy possibility, medicines, allergies, previous surgery and your fertility goals. Follow the instructions about fasting, medicines and transport if a procedure is scheduled.

After hysteroscopy, contact your care team for heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, faintness or unusual-smelling discharge. Seek urgent help for collapse, severe breathing difficulty or a rapid deterioration in how you feel.

How large and deep is the septum? Is hysteroscopic treatment suitable for me? What will you use to guide the procedure? How might treatment affect pregnancy planning, and what follow-up will I need?