What is postmenopausal bleeding?
Postmenopausal bleeding is vaginal bleeding which occurs during menopause (12 months after woman’s last period).
What does postmenopausal bleeding mean?
In 90% of cases it is not concerning at all as the causes may be the thinning of the lining of the uterus or hormonal imbalance without presence of malignancy or even vaginal pathology.
However, in about 10% of cases the etiology of postmenopausal bleeding is incipient of endometrial cancer.
What should I do?
Speculum examination and transvaginal ultrasound are recommended.
Are these examinations sufficient for diagnosis?
Usually, it is needed a hysteroscopic check with endometrial biopsy.
Why Hysteroscopy is more beneficial than Dilation and Curretage (D&C)?
Diagnostic D&C can also detect endometrial cancer in a rate of 70% because endometrial abnormalities cannot be seen, so it is taken a sample in a blind fashion. In other words, curettage makes an incorrect diagnosis in 3 out of 10 cases.
How do I decide which option is better for me?
Talk to Gynecologist- Endoscopic surgeon Dr. Marinakis.
Doctor should examine you in order to be assured that there is an indication for an operative Hysteroscopy.
If they have discouraged you from Hysteroscopy, and you do not have enough information not only about the indications of the procedure, but also about your treatment planning, you may be in the wrong place!
Overall, hysteroscopy is a really safe procedure; however every single medical practice is safe only if it is managed by a specialist.
Gynecologist Dr. Marinakis specialises in gynecological hysteroscopy. He is certified in advanced laparoscopy and hysteroscopy by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He was also a member of Laparoscopic training unit “MATTU” in United Kingdom.
How much does a hysteroscopy cost?
The cost of a diagnostic hysteroscopy is low and it usually depends on your health insurance cover.
