It is common for people to get confused between hysteroscopy and hysterectomy. If you have confused these terms with each other, too, don’t worry; you’re not alone. While these two medical terms sound very similar, they are completely different procedures. These two medical procedures target the female reproductive system but serve different purposes.
Hysteroscopy involves looking inside the uterus and treating minor issues sometimes. On the other hand, a hysterectomy is a completely invasive procedure to remove the uterus. If you want to understand your health options, this blog will help you understand the difference between Hysteroscopy and Hysterectomy.
A] What is Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy, as mentioned above, is a minor procedure that involves using a small, lighted tool called a hysteroscope to look inside the uterus. One of the benefits of hysteroscopy is that this procedure is minimally invasive as the tool is inserted through the vagina and cervix. Therefore, no cuts are needed.
Hysteroscopy is usually performed to diagnose or treat abnormal bleeding, polyps, fibroids, or uterine adhesions. Sometimes, gynaecologists also perform this procedure to take small tissue samples for testing. Hysteroscopy may, at times, also resolve the issues, like removing a polyp.
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B] What is a Hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy is a major surgery performed for the removal of the uterus. The type of the hysterectomies performed depends on the patient’s condition. For example, a total hysterectomy involves the removal of both the uterus and cervix. On the other hand, a partial hysterectomy removes only the uterus and does not affect the cervix.
This surgery can be more complex if it is to treat severe conditions like cancer. Hysterectomies are recommended for serious issues like uterine cancer, large or painful fibroids, or uncontrollable bleeding where other treatments haven’t helped.
C] Key Differences – Hysteroscopy Vs Hysterectomy
Below are some of the main differences between hysteroscopy and hysterectomy:
1. Procedure Type
Hysterectomy and hysteroscopy have different procedure types. Hysteroscopy is a procedure performed for diagnosis or sometimes treatment and is not invasive. It does not require any cuts because the doctor inserts the needle through the vagina and cervix.
On the other hand, a hysterectomy is a proper surgical procedure performed to treat serious issues. It may involve an abdominal incision or may be done through the vagina or laparoscopy.
2. Purpose
The main function of hysteroscopy is to allow physicians to examine the uterus’s interior or to conduct minimal treatments. The procedure serves two primary functions- locating causes of abnormal bleeding and removing growths of small size.
Patients typically get a hysterectomy only after all other treatment options fail for health problems in question. Doctors perform hysterectomy for uterine problems or to eliminate the uterus when patients suffer from cancer, large fibroids, or severe endometriosis.
3. Recovery
The recovery process after hysteroscopy stays brief. How the body recovers from hysteroscopy is quick since most patients return to their usual state within a few days. Even if there is mild cramping and minimal bleeding, it goes away after a while.
After hysterectomy surgery, patients need a minimum of four to six weeks to heal completely. Medical experts suggest patients minimise heavy workloads and physical activities and abstain from sexual contact while in recovery. The recovery duration can also depend on the approach used for surgical operation.
4. Risks
Hysteroscopy creates minimal risk during its surgical procedure. The most that hysteroscopy can cause are minimal cramps, minor bleeding, and rare instances of infections or uterine injury.
Patients undergoing hysterectomy may face greater surgical risks because the procedure is complex. These may involve infection, heavy bleeding, complications from anaesthesia, and injury to surrounding organs such as the bladder or intestines. People who undergo uterus removal face infertility consequences, and if their ovaries are also removed, that also causes an immediate onset of menopausal symptoms.
D] When is Each Procedure Needed?
The key difference between hysteroscopy and hysterectomy is that these procedures are needed for different health conditions:
Hysteroscopy
Medical professionals recommend hysteroscopy for diagnosis of fibroids, polyp conditions, and problems with unusual vaginal bleeding. It is also recommended to diagnose the reasons behind fertility problems and recurrent miscarriages. Hysteroscopy comes as the first option when people need to keep their uterus intact.
Hysterectomy
Doctors advise hysterectomy for severe conditions, which include uterine or cervical cancer or big fibroids and problematic endometriosis. Medical professionals also perform this procedure if there are life-threatening issues. Most people consider hysterectomy only after other treatments haven’t worked or when they’re sure they don’t want kids.
E] Recovery and Aftercare
While experts perform the procedures, it is always helpful to understand the recovery and aftercare:
Hysteroscopy
Most people recover from hysteroscopy in just a few days. Mild cramping and light bleeding can happen but usually clear up fast. You’ll need to avoid using tampons or having sex for a few days to reduce the risk of infection.
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy recovery time is much longer—usually 4 to 6 weeks. Resting and avoiding anything that could put stress on your body is essential. Follow-up appointments are a must to make sure you’re healing properly. Some people also need emotional support since losing the uterus can be a big deal physically and mentally, especially if the ovaries are removed too.
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Conclusion
Even though hysteroscopy and hysterectomy sound alike, they’re very different procedures. Hysteroscopy is a quick and minimally invasive way to diagnose or treat problems inside the uterus.
On the other hand, hysterectomy is a major surgery used for more serious conditions. Understanding these differences can help you make better decisions about your health with your doctor’s guidance.
If you have any misconceptions about hysterectomy or want to know more about this condition, get a timely consultation with an expert.
Neha Goel
Neha Goel, a Psychology alumna and MBA graduate from CASS Business School, London, brings together her expertise as a Reiki Practitioner and Practice Manager. She integrates psychology and business strategies to foster holistic well-being and personal development.