Procedure: |  | The test takes approximately one hour to perform and is done by a staff radiologist specializing in women’s imaging with the assistance of an ultrasound technologist. The first part of the test involves the performance of a transvaginal or internal ultrasound evaluation. For this, you should arrive in the department with an empty bladder.
After being appropriately covered, we will place you in the GYN examination position on one of our ultrasound tables and gently insert an ultrasound probe covered with a sterile non-latex cover into your vagina. We will image your uterus, uterine lining, and ovaries during this time period.
The second part of the examination will be the actual performance of the sonohysterogram. For this, we will cover your legs with a sterile drape and use a metal speculum in your vagina to identify your cervix. Your cervix will then be cleaned with betadine, an iodine-c containing sterile solution, to remove any surface bacteria. Using sterile technique, a small catheter (tube) will be inserted through the vagina into the central aspect of the uterus. Once the catheter is in place, the speculum will be removed. The transvaginal ultrasound device will then be reinserted into your vagina. As we are watching with the transvaginal ultrasound device, we will gently instill approximately 10-20cc (a couple of tablespoons) of sterile fluid into your endometrial canal so that the canal may be distended and we may have a better look at the endometrial lining.
We will be recording the exam with a videotape and obtaining regular radiographic images during this phase of the examination which lasts 10-15 minutes. The ultrasound device and then the catheter will be gently removed. Some women experience mild to moderate cramping either during the insertion of the catheter into the cervix or during the filling of the uterus with the small amount of fluid. Women who have had their tubes tied are especially prone to this, as the fluid cannot flow freely down the fallopian tubes into the pelvis. We generally advise that you take whatever medication you use for normal menstrual cramps approximately 1 hour prior to the test and should you experience cramping within the 24 hours following the test, continue to take that medication.
If you know you are allergic to latex products or iodine-containing solutions, please let us know in advance as we will prepare somewhat differently to accommodate you
If you think you are pregnant, have an active pelvic infection, or are having your period on the day of the examination, we would not want to do the test. Please call us directly and we will make arrangements for you.  |