[ADL524]

We are about to head out to CCRM in Colorado to get our initial workup prior to starting our 1st IVF. Part of this process involves having a diagnostic hysteroscopy. I am wondering what this procedure is like? Is it painful?

The instructions also say that you can't have intercourse or use a tampon for one week after the procedure. I am wondering why one should abstain for "one week"? Is this because sex could be painful or is it because sex could cause some damage after this procedure?

I was hoping to take advantage of being off the pill, starting acupuncture and possibly ovulating, so it was my plan to have intercourse a few days after the procedure if I am (hopefully) ovulating, however, if it would be medically contraindicated to have intercourse after the procedure, I won't. I am just curious about the reasoning and importance of this rule?

any thoughts/info about the procedure itself and the one week abstinence rule is appreciated!

[dynamite06]

Hi there. I had a Hysteroscopy in February this year. The only thing that I found to be really uncomfortable was the paracervical block that the RE did before the procedure. It's nothing great having a bunch of needles stuck in your cervix. But the procedure as a whole wasn't bad. I did have some pretty bad cramping about 30 minutes later or so, but it went away pretty quick. It's really no big deal, just a little uncomfortable is all.
As for not having sex or using tampons, that is so you don't develop an infection or something. Gives you a little time to heal.
hope this helps ya!

[maggie01]

I don't know why they would require no sex or tampons. I had this procedure done w/o any kind of block and when it was done I didn't even know they had started. It was very quick and not painful at all for me. I had no cramping whatsoever. The doctor said I'd probably been so use to getting all kinds of needle sticks etc that this was nothing.

Seriously, nothing to worry about. Good luck.

[ADL524]

Thanks ladies. I guess the pain (or lack thereof) involved in this procedure is going to depend, in part, on my body - how my cervix and uterus are shaped and if there are any problems.

I appreciate hearing your experiences!

[c_a_mastro]

Hi! I just had one done on Tuesday, it hurt a little. When they were putting in the air to expand to take pictures. It was only a nine minute procedure, so that was good! My HSG was a lot more painful. I bleed for three days after, like a light period. No sex is right! We tried and it was painful! So take it easy! The IVF bloodwork has been the hardest for me...7 tubes!!