How long should sexual intercourse be avoided before hysteroscopy?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Hysteroscopy is typically advised to be preceded by a 3-day period of sexual abstinence to reduce the risk of infection and ensure the accuracy of the examination results. Since hysteroscopy is an invasive procedure, sexual activity before the exam may increase the risk of infection, thereby affecting the examination outcomes. Additionally, it is important to avoid taking baths or swimming too soon after the procedure.

Generally, sexual intercourse is usually prohibited for 3 days before undergoing a hysteroscopy. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Hysteroscopy primarily involves using a hysteroscope to observe the shape and structure of the uterus and can help identify the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, or scanty menstruation. However, hysteroscopy is an invasive procedure that may cause injury to the endometrium, uterine wall, vaginal mucosa, and other tissues during the procedure. Sexual intercourse the day before the examination may alter the vaginal and uterine environment, thereby increasing the risk of bacterial invasion. Therefore, it is generally recommended to abstain from sexual activity for 3 days prior to the examination to reduce the risk of infection and ensure the accuracy of the examination results.

In addition to avoiding sexual intercourse before hysteroscopy, attention to personal hygiene is also important. After the examination, activities such as swimming or taking baths should be avoided too early to prevent retrograde infection.

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Is the hysteroscopy procedure painful?

In general, the level of discomfort during a hysteroscopy varies among individuals. Most people can tolerate the procedure, while a few may experience significant discomfort. If you are concerned about pain, it is recommended to communicate fully with your doctor beforehand and choose an appropriate pain relief method. Additionally, staying relaxed and cooperating with the procedure can further reduce discomfort. Mild abdominal pain or slight bleeding after the examination is usually normal.

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Is hysteroscopy harmful to the body?

In general, whether hysteroscopy causes harm to the body depends on the specific circumstances. If the procedure is performed strictly according to the operational guidelines and post-procedure care is followed as directed by a physician, there is generally no harm. However, if the procedure is performed improperly or post-operative care instructions are not followed, it may cause harm to the body.

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What are the symptoms of fallopian tube inflammation?

Salpingitis may be caused by unhygienic sexual practices, pathogen infection, inflammation spreading from adjacent organs, or other similar reasons. Symptoms of salpingitis include lower abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, menstrual irregularities, fever, and infertility. If related symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital for a definitive diagnosis through methods such as hysterosalpingography (X-ray imaging), hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy.

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Is anesthesia required for hysteroscopy?

Whether anesthesia is required for hysteroscopy mainly depends on the type of examination. Painful hysteroscopy is usually performed without anesthesia and is suitable for patients with good pain tolerance. In contrast, painless hysteroscopy requires anesthesia, which can be administered in various ways, including local medication and injection. This approach is suitable for patients with low pain tolerance.