What are the alternatives to diagnostic hysteroscopy?

Transvaginal ultrasound uses a slim ultrasound probe in the vagina to create images of the uterus, lining, and ovaries. It may identify a thickened lining, fibroid, or suspected endometrial polyp, but an image cannot always confirm what a small area contains.

Diagnostic hysteroscopy passes a hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix so the inside of the womb can be viewed directly. A biopsy or removal of a visible polyp may be possible during the same visit, depending on the planned procedure and service.

Tell your clinician whether the concern is heavy bleeding, bleeding after menopause, infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, or a suspected polyp. They can explain whether ultrasound is a suitable first step, whether a lining sample is also needed, and how an abnormal scan would be followed up.

Arrange medical assessment for unusually heavy bleeding, bleeding after menopause, persistent pelvic pain, or dizziness with bleeding. Seek urgent help for soaking-heavy bleeding with weakness, fainting, severe pain, or fever. The urgency comes from the symptom pattern, not from assuming a particular diagnosis.

Ask what the test is intended to find, whether ultrasound can answer that question, whether a biopsy is needed, and what happens if the scan suggests an endometrial polyp or another womb-lining change.