Sonohysterography is a technique in which fluid is injected through the cervix into the uterus, and ultrasound is used to make images of the uterine cavity. The procedure usually only takes about 15 minutes.
The fluid shows more detail of the inside of the uterus than when ultrasound is used alone. The procedure can be done in our OBGYN office – saving you the inconvenience of an additional trip to a separate hospital or clinic.
Sonohysterography can find the underlying cause of many problems, including abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and repeated miscarriage. A sonohysterogram may be ordered when a woman has had a normal ultrasound exam but is still having symptoms. This procedure can detect the following conditions: abnormal growths inside the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps; scarring inside the uterus; and abnormal uterine shape. Sonohysterography also is done before and after some surgical procedures.
Sonohysterography
Sonohysterography FAQs
Why is sonohysterography done?
Sonohysterography can find the underlying cause of many problems, including abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and repeated miscarriage. A sonohysterogram may be ordered when a woman has had a normal ultrasound exam but is still having symptoms.
Sonohysterography can detect the following conditions:
- Abnormal growths inside the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps
- Scarring inside the uterus
- Abnormal uterine shape
When is sonohysterography done?
The procedure will be scheduled when you are not having your menstrual period. If you are bleeding, the results may not be as clear. The test may be postponed until the bleeding stops. The procedure is not done if you are or could be pregnant, or if you have a pelvic infection or pelvic inflammatory disease. You may be given a urine test to rule out pregnancy.
What preparation is involved before the procedure?
Sonohysterography is done when your bladder is empty. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on an exam table. Your health care provider may do a pelvic exam to check if you have any tenderness or pain. In some situations, you may be given antibiotics.
How Sonohysterography is Performed
Sonohysterography has two parts. A transvaginal ultrasound exam is done first. Next, a fluid is injected through the cervix into the uterus, and an ultrasound exam is done again.
In a transvaginal ultrasound exam, an ultrasound transducer—a slender, handheld device —is placed in the vagina. It sends out sound waves that are used to make images of the internal organs. These images are shown on a screen.
After the first transvaginal ultrasound exam, the transducer is removed. A speculum is placed in the vagina. It holds the vagina open. The health care provider passes a swab through the speculum to clean the cervix.
Next, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted through the vagina. It is placed in the opening of the cervix or in the uterine cavity. The speculum then is removed.
The transducer is placed in the vagina again. A sterile fluid is slowly passed through the catheter. Cramping may occur as the fluid goes into the uterus. A transabdominal ultrasound exam also may be done while the fluid is passed into the uterus. In this type of ultrasound exam, a transducer is moved over the abdomen.
When the cavity is filled with fluid, ultrasound images are made of the inside of the uterus and the uterine lining.
CERTIFICATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS
LOCATION
1135 W. University, Suite 100
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
