About this service
A hysteroscopy is performed to diagnose certain problems; your gynaecologist will need to look directly at the inside of your uterus.
Common reasons for having a hysteroscopy include abnormal bleeding, fibroids, polyps or difficulty getting pregnant.
Who we care for
Our services are available for patients who are referred to by a GP or medical practitioner.
This service is free for Medicare card holders, asylum seekers and refugees. A fee will be incurred for all other patients.
How to access this service
Your GP or medical practitioner will organise for you to access this service.
For more information, please call us on (02) 5124 7625. You will hear an answering machine message. If you leave a message, we will call you back as soon as possible.
What to expect
Once we receive your referral, we will review it and decide how soon you need to be seen. This process is called triage. We’ll send you a letter to let you know your triage category and our team will contact you to book an appointment.
At your initial consultation with the gynaecologist, you will be advised that a hysteroscopy will be necessary to investigate and potentially treat your problem. We’ll discuss having the hysteroscopy as an outpatient procedure.
Your doctor will explain the procedure and book you in. We’ll give you written information about the procedure and advise you to take simple pain killers, such as paracetamol or non steroidal anti-inflammatory tablets, one hour before the procedure. You do not need to fast.
Outpatient hysteroscopy is generally performed without any anaesthetic. A very fine hysteroscope (telescope) is passed through the vagina and through the cervix allowing your doctor to see inside the womb.
Occasionally, the cervix is tightly closed and local anaesthetic is applied to allow the cervix to be dilated. If polyps are seen, another instrument may be used for their removal. Fluid (normal saline) is used throughout the procedure to allow the cervix and womb to dilate, so you may feel wet during the procedure. The doctor and nurse in the clinic will keep you informed every step of the way.
After the procedure, once you are well, you are free to leave. We recommend that someone drives you home.
What to bring to your appointment
- Medicare card
- Any letters or correspondence from your GP
- Medicines you need to take while you are here
- Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
Where we’re located
Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, Building 11, Level 2, Canberra Hospital.
We have directions to Centenary Hospital for Women and Children and Canberra Hospital.
Information for referrers
Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.
Referral options:
- Phone: (02) 5124 7625
- Fax: (02) 5124 5500
- SmartForm
