Hysterosalpingo-Contrast-Sonography/Tubal Patency Scan
What is a Hysterosalpingo-Contrast-Sonography (HyCoSy)?
Hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (shortened to "HyCoSy") is an ultrasound procedure that is performed if you are having difficulty getting pregnant. It allows the Doctor to see if the Fallopian tubes are open or blocked.
How is Hysterosalpingo-Contrast-Sonography (HyCoSy) performed?
A basic vaginal ultrasound scan will first be performed to assess the uterus and ovaries. Next, a speculum is inserted into the vagina (like during a pap test) and then a thin plastic tube is gently placed into the uterine cavity through the cervical canal. The speculum is then removed, and the vaginal probe is inserted into the vagina. A sterile saline solution is then slowly infused into the uterine cavity to distend the womb, allowing for the identification of abnormalities inside the uterus (i.e. submucosal fibroids, endometrial polyps, and anatomical abnormalities of the uterus).
Next, the Doctor infuses a non toxic dye into the uterine cavity and Fallopian tubes to assess if the Fallopian tubes are open or blocked. The bright dye can be seen traveling through normal Fallopian tubes on the ultrasound scan (as in the video to the right) if the tubes are open (or patent). If the tubes are blocked, the fluid will not be be seen to pass through the Fallopian tubes, and the tubes are reported as blocked or non-patent.
The HyCoSy procedure usually takes about 30 minutes. The results of the scan and the test will be explained to you on the day.
Before the HyCoSy procedure
How will I feel after the HyCoSy procedure?
What are the risks of the HyCoSy procedure?
On arrival at the clinic, you will be seen by the Doctor who will explain the procedure.
You should have the HyCoSy procedure performed within the first 12 days of your menstrual cycle, and preferably within one week of your period ending. You will be asked to perform a urine pregnancy test at the clinic, just prior to the procedure. A HyCoSy scan cannot be carried out if you are pregnant or if you have a pelvic inflammatory disease. You must advise your referring doctor or staff at Sonacare if you have either of these conditions.
As there may be some mild cramping associated with the procedure, please take some painkillers (such as panadol or nurofen) about an hour before your appointment
It is a good idea to have somebody with you to drive you home after the procedure in case you get some pelvic cramps.
What are the risks of the HyCoSy procedure?
How will I feel after the HyCoSy procedure?
What are the risks of the HyCoSy procedure?
There are minimal risks associated with the HyCoSy procedure and it is very safe. You may experience some period type pain when the normal saline fluid passes through the Fallopian tubes. On occasions women can feel faint as the fluid is passed through.
There is a very small risk of infection, however, this risk is very low ( 1 in 100 cases), as this procedure is performed under sterile conditions. If you experience ongoing pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal discharge, you should call Sonacare staff or see your GP, as this may indicate a possible pelvic infection.
How will I feel after the HyCoSy procedure?
How will I feel after the HyCoSy procedure?
How will I feel after the HyCoSy procedure?
Most patients feel normal after the scan. You may have some mild pelvic discomfort (like mild period pain), but this will resolve after a few minutes to an hour or so.
A very small number of patients may have some dizziness due to the cervix being slightly irritated by the catheter. This usually passes within a few minutes and has no adverse outcome.
You can return to work as soon as you feel able. Some people find the examination easier than others. There is no single answer, but in most cases the day following the procedure will be fine.
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