Definition and principle of hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is an inspection method that enters the uterus through inserting hysteroscope for observation and diagnosis. Hysteroscopy is a slender optical instrument that can enter the uterus through the cervix and observe the pathological changes of endometrium and uterine cavity through a microscope. At the same time, hysteroscopy can also be used for local resection, foreign body removal and biopsy.
The principle of hysteroscopy is to use optical fiber to transmit images and display the internal conditions of the uterus on the display screen in real time. By observing the images on the screen, doctors can directly evaluate the endometrium, uterine cavity structure, ovary and oviduct orifice.
Hysteroscopy is usually performed in the late menstrual period because the endometrium is thin and easy to observe. Before the examination, the cervix needs to be sterilized, and then slowly inserted into the hysteroscope until it reaches the uterine cavity. The examination is usually accompanied by a small amount of bleeding and mild pain.
Necessity of Hysteroscopy in IVF
1. Evaluation of endometrium: Hysteroscopy can directly observe and evaluate the thickness, smoothness and pathological changes of endometrium. For IVF, a suitable endometrium is the prerequisite for embryo transfer. If the endometrium is abnormal, such as polyps, adhesions or other lesions, it may affect embryo implantation and pregnancy.
2. Search for abnormal causes: hysteroscopy can find and diagnose some potential problems affecting pregnancy, such as uterine malformation, endometriosis, uterine adhesion, etc. These diseases may lead to difficulty in embryo implantation or early abortion. Therefore, hysteroscopy before IVF can help doctors identify potential causes and solve problems in advance.
3. Guide treatment selection: Hysteroscopy can not only find problems, but also carry out some treatment operations. For example, for intrauterine adhesions, hysteroscopic surgery can be used to release the adhesions; Endometriosis can be resected. Through hysteroscopy, doctors can choose the most appropriate treatment according to the condition.
Implementation and risks of hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is usually performed in a professional obstetrics and gynecology hospital. Before the examination, the doctor will know the patient's medical history and symptoms in detail, and make preoperative preparations, including disinfection and anesthesia. The examination process often requires slight dilation of the cervical orifice, and sometimes it needs to be combined with stain or physiological saline to increase visibility.
Although hysteroscopy is a relatively safe diagnostic method, there are still some risks. Common adverse reactions include mild abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding and infection. In rare cases, the cervix or uterine wall may be perforated, but this complication is rare.
Summary
In general, hysteroscopy is of great necessity in the process of IVF. It can evaluate the condition of endometrium, search for abnormal causes and guide treatment selection. Hysteroscopy is generally performed in professional obstetrics and gynecology hospitals. Although there are certain risks, the risks are controllable under the guidance of experienced doctors. Therefore, hysteroscopy is a valuable and necessary examination before IVF.
