For many patients it is possible to have minor gynaecology procedures carried out while awake and in an outpatient setting.
This is called Ambulatory Care. The benefits of having a procedure in the ambulatory care setting include avoiding a hospital stay, the need for a general anaesthetic and a faster recovery time.
The National Maternity Hospital’s Ambulatory Gynaecology Clinic offers an outpatient hysteroscopy service.
What is an Outpatient Hysteroscopy (OPH)?
An OPH is a diagnostic procedure to examine the inside or lining of the womb. This is done by passing a small thin telescope (camera) called a hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix (neck of the womb) to allow the doctor or advanced nurse practitioner see if there are any problems inside your womb that may need further investigation or treatment. We aim to offer a ‘see and treat’ service where possible. Your healthcare provider may suggest carrying out a procedure at the time of your appointment. This may involve a small sample of the womb, called a biopsy been taken or removal of small polyps if present.
There are many reasons why you may be referred to the ambulatory gynaecology clinic for an outpatient hysteroscopy (OPH). These include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Removal or insertion of an intrauterine coil device (IUCD)
- Assessment or removal of polyps or fibroids found on ultrasound scan
- Fertility or miscarriage investigations
Please continue to attend your GP for medical advice while you wait for your appointment at the Ambulatory Gynae clinic. If you develop new or worsening symptoms and are concerned about your waiting time, your GP can send an updated referral requesting your appointment be expedited.
If you have a query relating to your appointment, or need to speak to a nurse please contact us.
Contact details
The Ambulatory Gynaecology Clinic
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 – 15:30 hrs (excluding bank holidays)
Phone Number: 01 637 3122
Please have your hospital number ready when you phone, it is detailed on your appointment letter.
Email: OPHysteroscopy@nmh.ie
If using email, please provide details of your full name, date of birth and hospital number with your query (your hospital number is on your appointment letter).
Referrals
Referrals are accepted from GPs and consultants from other hospital clinics.
This Ambulatory Gynaecology Clinic Referral form should be used to refer patients. Completed referral forms should be emailed to gynaeCRO@nmh.ie. Please include results / full reports of any completed investigations, and any relevant medical correspondence with the completed referral. Incomplete referrals will be returned.
Referrals are triaged by a consultant gynaecologist. An ultrasound scan, if not already completed, may be ordered before a decision is made to perform a hysteroscopy. Patients will receive this appointment if necessary. If the consultant decides that an OPH is not appropriate for the patient at this time the patient will be given an appointment to attend the Benign Gynaecology Clinic.