The uterus

The uterus is made up of the uterine body and cervix.

Layers of the uterus

The uterine body is made up of 3 layers:

• Outer covering (serosa)
• Middle muscle layer (myometrium)
• Inner lining (endometrium)

Endometrial cavity

The inside of the uterus, or endometrial cavity, can be accessed through the vagina and cervix without making any cuts on your skin. In hysteroscopy, a hysteroscope (or camera) is inserted into the endometrial cavity.

The cervix

The cervix is tube-shaped and connects the uterus with the vagina. It is usually closed, and opens during labour to allow delivery of a baby. The cervix sits at the top of the vagina and can be seen when looking into the vagina.

Cervical dilation

Depending on the hysteroscope size, the cervix may first need to be dilated, or opened, in order to insert the hysteroscope. Medications may be prescribed before your hysteroscopy to help soften and open the cervix (e.g. misoprostol tablets). The cervix may be further opened using a series of smooth rods (or dilators) that gradually increase in size.