What does hysteroscopy mean?
Hysteroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the uterus directly. A doctor inserts a narrow, illuminated instrument called a hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix into the uterine cavity. The instrument contains an optical system and often a light source, allowing the uterine lining and the openings of the fallopian tubes to be inspected. Hysteroscopy may be performed diagnostically to investigate abnormal bleeding, infertility, polyps, fibroids, or other abnormalities. It can also be operative, allowing selected abnormalities to be treated during the same procedure. Although the name contains the same historical Greek root associated with hysteria, the modern term has no psychological meaning and refers specifically to this endoscopic examination. The term is widely used in British and American medical practice and is generally encountered in clinical reports, specialist discussion, and patient information. Its importance lies in enabling direct assessment and, in many cases, immediate treatment of problems within the uterine cavity without open surgery.
nounA medical examination of the uterus using a hysteroscope, a slender instrument inserted through the cervix. It allows direct visual inspection of the uterine cavity and may be used diagnostically or to perform certain procedures.
- The endoscopic examination of the uterus through a hysteroscope, performed to diagnose uterine abnormalities or to treat certain conditions.
"The gynecologist recommended hysteroscopy to investigate the cause of her abnormal uterine bleeding."
"Hysteroscopy revealed a small polyp in the uterine cavity."
"The surgeon used operative hysteroscopy to remove the retained products of conception."
The plural is used when referring to multiple individual procedures.
"The hospital performed several hysteroscopies during the morning clinic."
A hysteroscope is a tiny illuminated tube, making 'looking into the uterus' both the word's meaning and its remarkable technique.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hysteroscopy come from?
Hysteroscopy combines the English combining form hystero-, derived from Greek hystera meaning womb or uterus, with -scopy, from Greek skopein meaning to examine or look. The compound belongs to the development of modern endoscopic examination of the uterus. Its related English words, including hysteria and hysterics, descend from the same ancient Greek root, although their modern meanings are largely unrelated to uterine examination.
Related word forms
How hysteroscopy is actually used
This is a specialist medical term, generally used in clinical and academic contexts rather than informal conversation. The related adjective is hysteroscopic.
Easily confused with hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy uses a small scope to view the uterine cavity directly, whereas hysterosonography produces images using ultrasound.