Dilatation and curettage (D&C) - After the procedure

You should be able to go home on the same day you have your hysteroscopy. If you had an anaesthetic, you may have to stay in hospital until it has worn off.

When you get home, rest as much as possible. Some women experience cramping afterwards that is similar to period pain. You may also get shoulder pain – a result of the gas or fluid used to inflate your womb. Any cramps or pain should pass within a few days. You can take painkillers in the meantime.

Most women feel they can return to normal activities, such as work, the day after having a hysteroscopy. However, you may wish to have a few days off to rest. The amount of time you need will depend on if you had additional treatment at the same time (for example, to remove fibroids or polyps).

If you are undergoing treatment at the same time as your hysteroscopy, you will probably experience some bleeding afterwards. Should this happen, you may find it helpful to wear a sanitary towel until it wears off.

Even if you are not having treatment at the same time as your hysteroscopy, you may still experience some vaginal bleeding and discharge. This is normal and should pass in a few days, although it can last for several weeks.

You shouldn't use tampons for at least a month after having a hysteroscopy, as this will help reduce the risk of infection.

If you have had a general anaesthetic, avoid drinking alcohol and driving a car for at least 24 hours.

Follow your surgeon’s advice on exercise, sex and contraception.

When to contact your doctor

After having a hysteroscopy, you should contact your doctor if you suffer from:

• severe pain that can't be controlled by over-the-counter painkillers
• heavy bleeding
• vaginal discharge that is smelly or unpleasant
• a fever (temperature over 38°C/100.4°F)

Getting your results

Your surgeon may give you your hysteroscopy results immediately if it is to explore conditions such as polyps or fibroids. 

If a biopsy is needed, it can take between two and six weeks to get your results. These may be sent through the post to your home address or to your doctor’s surgery. Before leaving the hospital, check how you will get your results.