Medical Reviewer: Ashley Przybysz, M.D., Birmingham OB/Gyn, link to bio
Published by: Birmingham OB/Gyn Women’s Health Team
When Heavy or Irregular Bleeding Needs Answers
Many women experience abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) — heavy periods, irregular cycles, or bleeding between periods. While bloodwork and ultrasound often help identify the cause, sometimes the next step is to look directly inside the uterus.
That’s where hysteroscopy comes in — and thanks to advances in technology, this once-hospital-only procedure can now be performed safely and comfortably right in the doctor’s office.
What Is a Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inside of the uterus using a thin telescope-like camera called a hysteroscope. The device passes gently through the vagina and cervix without any incision.
The physician can view the uterine lining in real time, identify polyps, fibroids, or other causes of bleeding, and even remove small growths or tissue samples (biopsies) during the same visit.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), hysteroscopy is a safe and effective diagnostic and treatment method for many uterine conditions — and, in properly selected patients, can be performed right in the office.
“Office-based hysteroscopy is associated with higher patient satisfaction and faster recovery compared to hospital-based operative hysteroscopy.” — ACOG Committee Opinion No. 800
Why Birmingham OB/Gyn Offers In-Office Hysteroscopy
Our team at Birmingham OB/Gyn is committed to improving access, comfort, and efficiency for our patients. Performing hysteroscopy in our accredited office suite offers clear advantages:
✅ No hospital scheduling or anesthesia
Procedures are done in a familiar environment, using gentle local anesthesia or oral medication for comfort.
✅ Fast results
We can diagnose and often treat small uterine problems in the same visit — reducing weeks of waiting for answers.
✅ Patient comfort and satisfaction
Research shows more than 90% of women would choose office hysteroscopy again if needed. (Obstetrics & Gynecology Science, 2020)
✅ High diagnostic accuracy
Hysteroscopy provides a direct view of the uterine cavity, identifying abnormalities that ultrasounds can miss.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
In-office hysteroscopy is ideal for many women with:
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Irregular or post-menopausal bleeding
- Suspected polyps or fibroids seen on ultrasound
- Infertility evaluations
Patients with very large fibroids, severe pain sensitivity, or complex surgical needs may still be better treated in a hospital setting. During consultation, your Birmingham OB/Gyn provider will determine which option is safest and most effective.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The entire visit usually takes less than 30 minutes.
- The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix; sterile fluid gently opens the uterus for viewing.
- Most patients feel mild cramping similar to period cramps.
- You can return to work or normal activity the same day.
Mild spotting may occur for a day or two. Serious complications are rare.
Evidence-Based and ACOG-Aligned
Our in-office hysteroscopy program follows the latest national guidelines, including ACOG Committee Opinion No. 800 (2020), which emphasizes patient selection, equipment standards, and maintaining the same safety expectations as ambulatory surgery centers.
As ACOG’s patient FAQ explains, hysteroscopy “can be performed either in the office or hospital” and is a valuable tool for evaluating abnormal uterine bleeding — reinforcing that this modern, convenient approach is not only safe but preferred by many women.
For Referring Physicians
Birmingham OB/Gyn welcomes referrals for patients who need diagnostic or therapeutic hysteroscopy.
- Rapid scheduling: Patients are typically seen within 1 week.
Referrals can be sent via our secure online form or faxed to 205-933-8334.
In-Office Expertise You Can Trust
At Birmingham OB/Gyn, our board-certified physicians — including Dr. Ashley Przybysz — provide advanced gynecologic care using the latest technology and evidence-based practices.
If you or your patient needs answers about abnormal bleeding, our in-office hysteroscopy service offers precision, comfort, and convenience — right here at home.
Ready to schedule or refer a patient?
📞 Call 205-933-8334 or request an appointment online.
References:
- ACOG Committee Opinion No. 800, The Use of Hysteroscopy for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Intrauterine Pathology, March 2020.
- ACOG FAQ: Hysteroscopy, acog.org/womens-health/faqs/hysteroscopy.
- Wright JD, Simko M. Getting Started with Office Hysteroscopy, Contemporary OB/GYN, Sept 2021.
- Park JY et al. Clinical practice in office hysteroscopy, Obstetrics & Gynecology Science, 2020.