Hysteroscopy & Colposcopy
(Endoscopy/Telescope-based Gynecological Procedures)
These are minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures that allow doctors to view the inner parts of a woman’s reproductive system using a thin, lighted instrument (like a telescope), without major surgery.
✅ 1. Hysteroscopy
(Viewing the inside of the uterus – “Garbhapishvi”)
What it is:
- A hysteroscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus.
Why it is done:
- To diagnose and treat:
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Abnormal uterine shape (congenital defects)
- Causes of infertility or repeated miscarriages
- Remove adhesions or retained products after miscarriage
Benefits:
- No external cuts
- Less pain and faster recovery
- Same-day discharge in most cases
Duration: 15–45 minutes
Type: Diagnostic or operative (can treat during the same procedure)
✅ 2. Colposcopy
(Viewing the cervix – the mouth of the uterus)
What it is:
- A colposcope (a special magnifying camera) is used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva closely.
Why it is done:
- Abnormal Pap smear results
- Detect early signs of cervical cancer
- Examine genital warts, inflammation, or unexplained bleeding
- Take a biopsy (tissue sample) if needed
Benefits:
- Highly accurate in detecting precancerous changes
- Helps prevent cervical cancer with early detection
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Type: Outpatient, painless, no anesthesia needed
🩺 Comparison at a Glance:
Feature | Hysteroscopy | Colposcopy |
---|---|---|
Area Examined | Uterus (inside) | Cervix, vagina, vulva |
Instrument | Hysteroscope (thin telescope) | Colposcope (external magnifier) |
Anesthesia | Often required | Usually not required |
Purpose | Diagnose/treat uterine issues | Detect cervical abnormalities |
Common Use | Heavy bleeding, fibroids, infertility | Abnormal Pap smear, HPV follow-up |
💡 Why these tests are important:
- Early diagnosis of serious problems (like cancer or infertility causes)
- Less invasive, less painful, quick recovery
- Help in timely treatment before problems worsen