Sonohysterography

What is it?

A sonohysterography, or hysterosonography, is a particular type of transvaginal ultrasound which allows the doctor to analyse the uterine cavity.

What is it for?

This technique can identify uterine abnormalities such as: 

• polyps;
• fibroids; 
• uterine malformations; 
• congenital anomalies; 
• malignant tumours, or; 
• endometrial adhesions.

What does it involve?

It is a minimally invasive procedure: you don’t need to do anything to prepare for it. The sonohysterography takes around 30 minutes and is usually carried out in two steps:

• First, ensure you have an empty bladder, and you will have a simple transvaginal scan done to check the shape and size of your uterus.
• The doctor will analyse your uterine surface after the scan. Then, a small catheter will inject a small amount of sterile saline, which will distend the uterine cavity. This will allow the doctor to better check your uterus and proceed with the ultrasound.

When should a sonohysterography be performed?

It should be undertaken by day 10 of the menstrual cycle (in patients that have regular cycles). If the patient has intermittent or prolonged abnormal uterine bleeding, a treatment of a short course of progestin may be considered in order to enable timing of the procedure.

A sonohysterography should not be be performed on someone who is pregnant or could be pregnant. 

Is a sonohysterography painful?

On the whole, a sonohysterography is painless. However you may feel some minor cramps or discomfort at times during the procedure.

Are there things you should avoid doing after the procedure?

After the sonohysterography, you can resume all normal activities like exercise and bathing. However, it's recommended that sexual intercourse should be avoided after 24 hours because there is an increased risk of infection during this period. 

It isn't unusual to experience a small amount of vaginal bleeding for up to three days afterwards, and you can wear a panty liner or pad for comfort.