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We have a number of different diagnostic tools in our arsenal, and one imaging technique that can be extremely helpful is the sonohysterogram. This technique allows the doctor to get a better picture of your uterus and the uterine lining, which can help to explain why you may be experiencing certain issues, like pain, bleeding or fertility problems. Below, we take a closer look at how the exam is performed and why it can be so beneficial.
Why Would I Need A Sonohysterogram?
At the most basic level, a sonohysterogram would be ordered by your provider if they feel it’s necessary to get a more detailed look at the structure of your uterus and its lining. The procedure can reveal a number of different aspects of your uterine health, including:
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The presence an positioning of endometriotic scar tissue
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Fallopian tube blockages
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Identifying abnormal growths like uterine fibroids or polyps
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Visualizing a thinning or irregular uterine lining
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Identifying any other potential contributing factors to miscarriage or infertility
How Is A Sonohysterogram Performed?
Prior to the exam, your doctor may ask you to take a pregnancy test, as you should not undergo the procedure if you are pregnant. It’s also helpful to try and schedule your sonohysterogram when you are not on your period, and most providers try to schedule the exam 7-10 days after the beginning of your period. This helps to limit your infection risk and provides the doctor with an image of the uterine lining when it’s at its thinnest, which aids in the diagnostic process.
On the day of your sonohysterogram, you will enter the exam room and lie down on a specialized table or bed. The doctor may conduct a quick pelvic exam to check for pain or an infection before beginning the procedure. The first stage of the procedure involves inserting a special ultrasound probe into the vagina. The device will emit sound waves that recreate an image of your uterine lining. This first image recreation allows your doctor to visualize the uterus without any fluid in the area.
Once that is complete, your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina. This special tool helps to keep your vagina open, making it easier for the doctor to reach your cervix. Your doctor will prep the area with a swab before inserting a tube that can deliver fluid to your cervical opening. This fluid causes your uterus to grow slightly larger, which also makes it easier to visualize.
Finally, the doctor will reinsert the ultrasound probe. This will again produce a recreation of your uterus and uterine lining for examination. Your doctor may also use a Doppler ultrasound to examine blood flow, to look for the presence of blockages or to understand how blood is supplied to any growths or tumors.
In all, the procedure takes about a half hour, and you can return to normal physical activities on the same day. Some women experience some mild vaginal discomfort or bleeding for the first day or two, so it may be more comfortable to abstain from intercourse until these symptoms have subsided.
If you are experiencing symptoms that suggest there may be an issue with your uterus or uterine lining, or if you’re struggling with infertility and want to see if this non-invasive exam can provide answers, a sonohysterogram may be right for you. For more information about the procedure, or to talk with a women’s care provider about an issue that you’re experiencing, reach out to the team at MetroPartners OBGYN today at (651) 770-3320.