Non-pharmacological pain control in outpatient hysteroscopies

Minim Invasive Ther Allied Technol. 2020 Feb;29(1):10-19. doi: 10.1080/13645706.2019.1576054. Epub 2019 Feb 22.

Abstract

Outpatient hysteroscopy has become the standard technique for gynaecological exploration of the uterine cavity. The most common reason for failure of the procedure is pain. During the last decade many studies were carried out to improve the equipment as well as the procedural technical aspects. Even so, hysteroscopy is still painful for many patients. Pharmacological pain control has been widely used for hysteroscopy, but these modalities can be invasive, have side effects and are contraindicated in many women. This review examines current literature on non-pharmacological interventions (pressure, stretching, heat, electricity, music and hypnosis) on the pain experienced during outpatient hysteroscopy.

Keywords: Office hysteroscopy; pain management; pain relief.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hysteroscopy / methods*
  • Outpatients
  • Pain / etiology*
  • Pain Management / methods*