Women’s Health Care Services
Fletcher Allen Health Care
Ambulatory Care Center – Level 4 Main Pavilion
Burlington VT 05401
(802) 847-1400
SONOHYSTEROGRAM
1.
What is a Sonohysterogram?
A Sonohysterogram is a simple office procedure that helps to identify
abnormalities in the structure of the uterine cavity. The procedure involves
the use of a transvaginal ultrasound to aid in visualizing the uterine cavity.
In addition to using the ultrasound, a small flexible catheter is placed through
the opening of the cervix into the uterus. A salt water solution is then
flushed into the uterine cavity via the catheter. The water inside the uterus
creates a visual contrast which enables your physician to determine any
structural abnormalities within the uterine cavity.
2.
What are the indications for a Sonohysterogram?
The use of a sonohysterogram aids in the evaluation of abnormal uterine
bleeding or for the evaluation of infertility problems relating to the uterine
cavity.
3.
How do I prepare for a Sonohysterogram?
The best time to schedule a sonohysterogram is during the first half of your
menstrual cycle. You should not schedule a sonohysterogram when you are
having vaginal bleeding as this can interfere with the interpretation of the
test. If you suspect you could be pregnant, please notify your physician prior
to the procedure and a pregnancy test will be performed.
A
sonohysterogram will not be performed if there is a chance you may be
pregnant. You may also wish to take 400mg of ibuprofen one hour prior to
the procedure as you may experience mild to moderate cramping during the
test.
4.
What can I expect during the procedure?
A sonohysterogram takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes to perform. The
procedure begins with the insertion of a small probe into the vagina and a
brief transvaginal ultrasound will be conducted in order to visualize the
uterus. The vaginal probe is then removed, and a speculum is placed into the
vagina. The vagina and cervix are cleansed with an iodine solution. A small
flexible catheter is introduced through the cervical opening into the uterus.
Once in place, a small balloon may be inflated to anchor the catheter in place.
The ultrasound probe is then reinserted and a small amount of water is
flushed into the uterus. At this time, your physician will take pictures of the
uterus and will discuss them with you at the completion of the procedure.
5.
What can I expect after the procedure?
You may experience mild to moderate pelvic cramping during and after the
procedure. This cramping could last anywhere from a few minutes to a few
hours after the procedure and should gradually disappear. You can also
expect to have fluid, which is clear or blood-tinged, from the vagina for
several hours after the procedure. It is recommended you wear a maxi pad
to prevent soiling or leaking onto your undergarments. It is also not
uncommon to have vaginal bleeding after the procedure. If your bleeding
becomes heavy and requires you to change a maxi pad every hour for several
hours, if you develop pain, abnormal discharge or a fever, you should call the
office at 847-1400 for evaluation, or visit your local emergency room. It is
very uncommon to have complications from a sonohysterogram, but it is
important to recognize signs and symptoms that should be reported to your
physician.