HyCoSy
Dysfunction of the female reproductive organs is apparent in around 40% of infertile couples. HyCoSy screening is a test to look at a patient’s uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. If either is damaged then it may be difficult to get pregnant.
Too many times females go ahead with IVF cycles thinking they can’t conceive naturally without first checking that their tubes are clear. Tubes can get blocked from infection but sometimes they just need a flush to remove debris from menstrual cycles or early miscarriages etc.
It is common to witness spontaneous pregnancies happen after this procedure.
HyCoSy FAQs
What is a HyCoSy procedure?
Hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (usually shortened to HyCoSy) is a safe and reliable outpatient ultrasound procedure.
A Hycosy is used to investigate infertility looking at the cavity of the uterus and the fallopian tubes. If either the cavity or the tubes are damaged, it may be difficult to become pregnant. The uterine cavity shape will be measured first. A contrast agent will then be injected into your uterus. If your tubes are not blocked then the agent can be seen passing through the fallopian tubes using ultrasound.
What do I need to do to prepare?
It is important that there is no possibility of your being pregnant before the HyCoSy scan. Please do not have intercourse from the first day of your period until after the examination. This procedure could disturb the implantation of an embryo. If you have intercourse in your cycle (whether protected or unprotected) we will not be able to proceed with the hycosy. The procedure will need to be postponed until your next menstrual cycle.
The best time to perform a HyCoSy is from the day after your period stops to day 12 of a regular 28-day (monthly) menstrual cycle (the first day of your period is counted as day 1). We are not able to do the examination if you are still bleeding from your period.Please only book this procedure after your period starts as very often cycles are late and procedures need to be cancelled.
Do I need pain relief?
The level of pain experienced during the HyCoSy is variable. During the examination, you may experience some discomfort and have a cramping sensation like period pain. It is wise to take two paracetamol about 30 minutes before your Hycosy procedure. No anesthetic is required for this procedure.
How is HyCoSy performed?
It is not possible to see the tubes with normal x-rays or ultrasound, so a specialised examination must be done.
A hyCoSy procedure takes approximately half an hour. The first part of a hycosy is similar to a smear test. A vaginal speculum is gently inserted into your vagina to allow your doctor to visualise and take measurements of your uterus (womb), endometrium (lining of the womb) and ovaries.
Under ultrasound guidance, a thin tube (catheter) is then passed into the uterus through the neck of the womb (cervix). A small amount of saline is injected into the womb to distend the endometrial cavity and the contour and shape of the uterine cavity are assessed and any abnormalities, such as polyps, fibroids, in the lining of the womb are also observed.
A contrast agent is then passed into the uterus and the fallopian tubes to assess the tubes. If the tubes are open, the fluid will be seen passing through the tubes on the ultrasound screen.
When do I get the results?
Your GP, fertility consultant, or alternative therapy consultant will receive a copy of your results within 24 hours of your appointment.
You will be provided with a prescription for antibiotics that will prevent infection following your hyCoSy.