Since our announcement of our upcoming IVF Journey, I wanted to document our entire process – not only to help other couples who may be going through it as well, but to look back on this time later down the road. I’m going to do my best to update in real-time as it happens. This morning, I had a scan called a Hysteroscopy. This is the first step to our IVF process. If you are thinking about having IVF done or are currently in the process of starting IVF, you will need a Hysteroscopy done.
What is a Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a scan that allows your doctor examine the uterus to diagnose and/or treat a number of conditions such as polyps, fibroids, bleeding, or scar tissue. While I did not have these things, it was mainly used to make sure that my uterus was clear and ready for an embryo transfer.
The scan is done by using a small catheter with a camera and is placed within the cervix to examine the uterine cavity. The procedure is done within 5 minutes.
Does a Hysteroscopy Hurt?
For me, the Hysteroscopy did hurt a little bit. It was no different than period cramps, however. Most patients don’t feel anything during the procedure. For me, my cervix wasn’t cooperating and the doctor had a difficult time navigating the catheter around.
The pain wasn’t excruciating by any means. Expect some discomfort during the scan. I’ve heard some doctor’s apply local anesthetic to help numb the cervix, but that wasn’t the case for me.
What to Expect During a Hysteroscopy
Prescription for Medication
For me, the doctor prescribed a pill to take the night before the scan. The purpose of the pill is to “soften the cervix”. I was told that it would make me crampy as well, so it’s best to take it before bedtime. The pill did make me cramp but it wasn’t any more painful than period cramps.
Have a semi-full bladder before your Hysteroscopy
My nurse failed to tell me this information but you are supposed to drink fluids and have a semi-full bladder before your scan. When I was taken to the examination room, the nurse had asked me if I had been drinking fluids. After I said “no”, she went and fetched 2 water bottles for me to chug.
Expect to have full bladders a lot during IVF by the way! They told me your bladder needs to be super full for embryo transfers!
They like your bladder to be full so they can see the cervix clearly on the sonogram.
Bleeding After Hysteroscopy
Bleeding is totally normal after having a Hysteroscopy. They poke and prod your cervix and uterus with a catheter after all! I had spotting afterward, but it didn’t last long. If you’re having enough bleeding to where you need a pad or tampon, definitely call your doctor immediately.
Results After Hysteroscopy
Results are pretty quick. The doctor told me everything looked good as she was performing the scan. Every clinic is different, however, and there are different ways they perform the scan based on diagnostic purposes.
In Conclusion
The procedure is quick and you’ll be back to your usual routine the same day. Some discomfort but that’s worth it if you’re going through IVF to have a baby! Follow along on our IVF journey here on my blog and on my Instagram and Twitter!
Follow along with me as we embark on our IVF Journey!
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