Medical Director
Senior Consultant, General & Colorectal Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh)
Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine internal organs and tissues using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and a camera. The scope is usually inserted through a natural body opening, such as the mouth, or through a small incision, providing real-time images for accurate assessment.
For women, endoscopy plays an important role in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the reproductive and digestive systems. It is often used to investigate pelvic pain, screen for cancer or evaluate fertility concerns, offering detailed visual information that imaging scans may not detect.
Common types of endoscopy recommended for women include:
Gastroscopy (Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy)
Gastroscopy, also known as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, is used to examine the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine. During the procedure, the endoscope is gently passed through the mouth and into the upper digestive tract.
This investigation is commonly recommended for persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain or unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia. It can help diagnose conditions such as gastritis, ulcers or upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy focuses on the lower digestive tract. A flexible scope is inserted through the anus to examine the entire colon and rectum.
It is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. In addition to detecting early cancers, colonoscopy can identify and remove polyps before they develop into malignancy. It is also used to evaluate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss or chronic abdominal discomfort. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and diverticular disease can also be diagnosed through this procedure.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Endoscopic ultrasound combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging. A specialised endoscope fitted with an ultrasound probe is passed into the digestive tract, allowing detailed imaging of the digestive wall and surrounding structures.
This technique is particularly useful for assessing the pancreas, bile ducts and deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract. It can assist in diagnosing conditions such as pancreatitis, cysts, tumours and certain bile duct disorders.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
Diagnostic laparoscopy, often referred to as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine organs within the abdomen. A small incision is made to insert a laparoscope, allowing direct visual assessment of internal structures.
In colorectal practice, laparoscopy may be recommended to evaluate unexplained abdominal pain, suspected bowel disease or complications that are not clearly identified through scans. It can also guide further surgical management where necessary.
When to Consider an Endoscopy
Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy when non-invasive tests, such as standard ultrasounds or blood tests, have not provided a clear diagnosis. It acts as both a diagnostic tool to find the root cause of an issue and a therapeutic tool to treat certain conditions.
Signs that may indicate the need for an endoscopy include:
- Abdominal Pain: Ongoing or unexplained pain in the stomach or pelvic region, which is not resolved with standard treatment.
- Abnormal Bleeding: This includes blood in the stool or vomit, which may suggest digestive issues, or unusual vaginal bleeding, which could point to uterine concerns.
- Digestive Distress: Symptoms such as frequent heartburn, bloating, nausea or changes in bowel habits may indicate underlying conditions that an endoscopy can help diagnose.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhoea, constipation or other unexplained changes require internal examination.
- Fertility Issues: If you have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, procedures like laparoscopy or HSG can help identify structural problems in the reproductive organs.
- Screening for Cancer: Women at higher risk for certain cancers, such as colorectal or gastrointestinal cancers, may benefit from regular endoscopic screenings.
Understanding the purpose of these procedures can help reduce anxiety and support informed decision-making. Early evaluation allows potential issues to be addressed promptly and appropriately.
Dr Chew Min Hoe Offers Tailored Endoscopic Care for Women
Endoscopic procedures provide a safe and effective way to investigate digestive concerns and support early detection of colorectal conditions. Whether for routine screening or evaluation of persistent symptoms, timely assessment plays a key role in protecting long-term gastrointestinal health.
At our endoscopy clinic, comprehensive endoscopic services are tailored to each patient’s clinical needs and risk profile. Dr Chew Min Hoe brings extensive experience in colorectal screening, minimally invasive techniques and advanced endoscopic procedures. Schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms or screening needs and take a proactive step towards safeguarding your digestive health.