Having Hysteroscopy under general anaesthetic - any advice for preparation/recovery?

[Swangirl40]

Hi, I am having a hysteroscopy under a general anaesthetic in a couple weeks for unexplained uterine spotting/bleeding. I am still -just- in peri, but scans and gyn concerned enough to need this procedure.

I have never had a GA or this procedure before and feeling a bit nervous so would be grateful to anyone who has is happy to share your experience please.

I am not sure what to take with me into hospital so appreciate any advice. It will be a day case - unless any unforseen complications.

I would be grateful if anyone is happy to share any how long did it take to recover, how long needed from work etc

Thank you so much !

[Hidden]

Hi I had to have this procedure under general anaesthetic as it was too painful without. Just in for a day, slight cramps the day after but nothing horrendous, just a day off work and paracetamol. Make sure you have someone to take you home and take overnight things just in case. It felt pretty routine to be honest, lots of women having the same procedure done, nothing to worry about. Good luck!

[Swangirl40 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for sharing your experience. That sounds reassuring. I will pack an overnight bag, just in case I need to stay. I have to be there at 11am but they did not say how long I would be there. I suppose it depends how it all goes and how I recover from the GA . Thank you!

[EssexDolly]

hello! I had this procedure and a biopsy done with no sedation or anaesthesia. It was uncomfortable but not that bad and I had no pain, bleeding or cramping afterwards. I’d take a sanitary towel just in case and some paracetamol. A GA is fine, you’ll go to sleep and the next thing you hear is then gently calling your name, you won’t be out for long so you’ll likely be right as rain within an hour or so. It’ll all be over before you know it! X

[Swangirl40 in reply to EssexDolly]

Thank you for your reassurance and for sharing your experience. That is great you had no pain or bleeding after.

The nurse I saw for pre op said I might bleed for 2 weeks! Sounds like she was giving me the worst case scenario. She said to take and get in a good stock of STs.

Thank you yes I have a couple packets of paracetamol in if I need them. I have to take in my dressing gown and slippers as well.

That sounds good re the GA, quite relaxing !

My BP was also a bit high so I am doing home BP readings. Mind you she also told me that I might need a hysterectomy if they cant sort the issues via this procedure, which isn't ideal to hear just before they take your BP!

Not sure what happens if they think my BP readings are too high ?

[EssexDolly]

I’m not sure, it could be because you are anxious? Please try not to worry, it will be over before you know it and even if you do bleed it’s only temporary whilst you heal. These things are so often far worse in our heads than they are in reality! Lots of love.

[Swangirl40 in reply to EssexDolly]

Thank you for your kindness, I appreciate it. I think the BP is high as my hubby recently had an op and I have been running around a lot and under stress with his recovery. He has to have another one 3 weeks after mine so its all a bit hectic. So it might be due to that, I don't know. I just hope they go ahead with it so I can get it over with. I guess I will know soon. Thank you !

[BallyHi10]

I had a hysteroscopy three weeks ago, and I'm still bleeding 😔 I've got a GP appointment at the end of the week, as I may have an infection. I had an endometrial biopsy, polyp removal and a Mirena fitted. The Mirena was 'sold' to me as the best way to deliver the progesterone part of my HRT, as it would prevent the lining building up and the bleeding. Well ... that worked 🙄😬

The GA is fine - a lovely sleep! Take some comfy clothes to wear home, and sanitary towels, and maybe a book or something if you are kept waiting.

[Swangirl40 in reply to BallyHi10]

Hi Bally, Yes it would be best to see a Dr about the bleeding. When I had my hysteroscopy under GA I did bleed after but only a little and only for about 3-4 days. They said it could be up to 2 weeks but to contact them if went on any longer. So best you get that checked out, I do hope your GP was helpful and all is better soon.

Yes the GA and the hysteroscopy was fine! I had polyps removed-they were the cause of the bleeding. Everyone was right, the GA was no problem at all, all I heard was the Dr saying I am going to give you something relaxing now and I was out like a light, woke up with 2 lovely nurses looking after me. Had water, tea and toast then a little sleep, then more water. Had 2 paracetamol in hospital as had a little pain initially, but no need for any more.

I was allowed home same day after consultant rounds, BP checks which were fine and they need you to go to loo and drink/eat a little. I took it easy for a few days and have had no issues since.

So I would have no worries if I have to have that procedure again under GA. Hope all is Ok for you Bally, take care.

[BallyHi10]

I'm glad it went okay for you. I've been to the GP and had swabs to check for infection. My GP said my discharge notes show that I had a fibroid removed, rather than a polyp, and that may be why I'm still bleeding over three weeks later, as there is more inside to heal up.

[Swangirl40 in reply to BallyHi10]

Glad you saw the GP and they are checking things out. Take good care of yourself and make sure you get enough rest as possible if you are still healing.