Hystero Contrast Sonography (HyCoSy) test
Read our guide below to find out what to expect from a hystero contrast sonography.
You can also download a PDF version of this patient information by following the link on the right.
What is a hystero contrast sonography (HyCoSy)?
It’s a test to find out if your fallopian tubes are open (patent).
It can also help detect some problems with your womb (uterus) and its lining (endometrium).
Why do I need a HyCoSy?
It’s an essential test for couples having difficulty conceiving. Having open fallopian tubes is necessary for natural conception as it allows the sperm and egg to meet.
What does the procedure involve?
You’ll have a HyCoSy in the outpatient department.
We’ll do an internal (transvaginal) ultrasound test first. A speculum is then placed in your vagina while you’re awake and lying on your back. A thin plastic catheter tube is passed through the neck of your womb.
We’ll do another internal ultrasound and flush a dye through the catheter at the same time.
The procedure lasts about 20 minutes.
When can I have the HyCoSy?
Usually between day 6 and 12 of your menstrual cycle. The first day of any blood loss is labelled as day 1 of your cycle.
Call us on day 1 of your cycle on 01494 324563. Leave a voicemail if there’s no response.
If you have irregular periods
Call your GP. They’ll give you medication to trigger a bleed (withdrawal bleed). Call us on day 1 of your bleed.
If the first day of your period falls on a weekend
Leave a voicemail.
If there’s a shortage of appointments, we may ask you to call back with your next period.
What happens if you’re still bleeding on the day of your test?
Please call us as your HyCoSy will have to be re-arranged.
How should I prepare for the procedure?
When we confirm your appointment, avoid pregnancy by using condoms or avoiding intercourse.
If you’re taking any fertility drugs, for example, Clomid, you must stop them at the start of the month you’re having the HyCoSy.
On the day of the procedure
Take pain relief one hour before the procedure as you may have some period-like cramps during the HyCoSy.
We advise you take one of the following:
- 400mg Ibuprofen (2 tablets of 200mg each) or
- two 500mg Paracetamol tablets (total of 1gram).
You should:
- eat and drink as normal before your procedure
- arrive with a full bladder – we may do a pregnancy test
- not bring any children under the age of 18 with you.
After the procedure
You can go about your day as normal.
It’s normal to have a white/pink discharge following the procedure for a couple of days.
It’s safe to have unprotected sex intercourse after the HyCoSy.
What are the risks of HyCoSy?
The procedure is considered safe, well tolerated and rarely causes any complications.
Possible side effects include:
- pelvic infection (0 to 3%). If you get an offensive vaginal discharge or high temperature, contact your GP as you may need antibiotics
- an inconclusive procedure due to discomfort or technical difficulties
- perforation of the womb (less than one in a 1,000)
- allergic reaction to the dye (less than one in 100).
When will I find out the result of the HyCoSy?
You’ll see a clinician after the procedure. They’ll tell you the results before you leave, and agree a plan of care with you.
Are there any alternative tests?
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an alternative to HyCoSy. Instead of ultrasound, it uses X- rays to assess your fallopian tubes and uterus. HSG has the downside of exposing you to radiation.
Laparoscopy and dye test is another alternative but this is a surgical operation that requires a general anaesthetic. We reserve this test for patients who aren’t suitable for HyCoSy/HSG or have had inconclusive results from one of these tests.
Where can I get further information?
Fertility Network UK are a UK support network for anyone with fertility problems.
If you need an interpreter
Check with the fertility secretary before your appointment on 01494 324563.
We don’t recommend using family or friends. Interpretation services have been shown to improve patient satisfaction.