Q: Could you explain a hysteroscopy?  How is it different from a D & C?

A: These procedures are often performed at the same time.  A hysteroscopy involves using a camera attached to a very thin fiber optic light source to look at the inside of the uterus.  The fiber optic scope is passed through the cervix and into the uterus directly.  It is the best way to evaluate any problem of the uterine lining (called the endometrium).

D & C (dilation and curettage) involves dilating the cervix in order to place the hysteroscope or to biopsy the endometrium.