Sonohysterography, also known as a saline infusion sonogram (SIS), uses sound waves to generate images of the inside of the uterus. This procedure is often recommended for patients who are experiencing fertility issues, as SIS provides detailed images that can help the doctor pinpoint abnormalities that may be affecting fertility. Radiation is not used as part of this process.

During the SIS procedure, you will be awake and lying on your back with your knees bent. The doctor will insert a slim device known as an ultrasound transducer, which will be covered with a disposable sheath and a special gel, into the vagina. Additionally, a thin, flexible catheter will be inserted into the cervix to fill the uterus with saline fluid. This is done to create a sharper image.

The SIS procedure provides the doctor with important information about the uterus, the fallopian tubes, and the egg supply. The procedure is typically quick and performed on an outpatient basis, usually taking no more than 15 to 20 minutes. It’s recommended to have this procedure in the week following your period, as this increases the accuracy of the test and lowers the risk of infection. While some women may experience mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps, the procedure is generally well-tolerated.

It’s important to understand that a saline sonohysterography is used as a diagnostic tool rather than an infertility treatment. As this approach is used to pinpoint concerns that may be influencing fertility, this diagnostic procedure can help your doctor understand what is preventing you from becoming pregnant and the best course of treatment. For instance, if the SIS reveals the presence of polyps or fibroids, your doctor may suggest surgical removal to clear the uterine cavity.

Additionally, while not entirely understood, some healthcare professionals report that the saline used during the procedure can flush out the fallopian tubes and uterus. This process can dislodge minor blockages or debris, making pregnancy more likely in the three months following a saline sonohysterogram.

There is research to suggest that pregnancy rates are higher in women in the months following a sonohysterogram. However, this does not mean that the procedure directly causes an increase in fertility. Instead, the sonohysterogram primarily serves as a diagnostic tool, helping to identify and sometimes inadvertently address factors that could be affecting fertility.

For example, when infertility is caused by minor blockages in the fallopian tubes, SIS can increase post-procedure pregnancy rates. In most cases, however, this procedure is used by doctors to identify concerns such as polyps, fibroids, or structural abnormalities. If these concerns are found, the medical professional will develop a personalized treatment plan to address them comprehensively and increase your chances of a successful conception.

In summary, while the sonohysterogram itself is not a fertility treatment, the comprehensive evaluation it provides can lead to interventions that enhance fertility. If you have any questions about the SIS procedure, reach out to our dedicated team.

While SIS is typically used to investigate infertility, the procedure can also be used to identify endometriosis. During the process, the healthcare professional will be able to see your uterus and uterine lining to assess any abnormalities. If you have symptoms such as long and heavy periods, infertility, vaginal bleeding between periods, or chronic pelvic pain, your doctor may use a sonohysterography to determine the root cause of your discomfort.

While SIS can show some of the abnormalities associated with endometriosis, this condition is diagnosed through a procedure known as a laparoscopy. A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that allows doctors to observe the pelvic organs and provides the opportunity to obtain tissue samples for further examination. The bottom line is that SIS is used to assess the condition of the uterus. If endometriosis is suspected after SIS, your healthcare provider will recommend a laparoscopy as the next stage to provide you with an accurate diagnosis.

Conceptions Fertility Center provides advanced, safe saline infusion sonograms to determine fertility, tailored to each patient’s specific needs throughout their fertility journey. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Provo UT, Orem UT, Mapleton UT, Vineyard UT, Highland UT, North Logan UT, Hyde Park UT, Smithfield UT, Benson UT, Logan UT, and surrounding areas.