Hysterosalpingo contrast sonography (HyCoSy) at Nuffield Health at St Bartholomew's Hospital

What is a HyCoSy?

HyCoSy, short for hysterosalpingo contrast sonography, is a type of ultrasound procedure to examine the fallopian tubes, as well as the uterus and ovaries, to check for abnormalities.

What are the benefits of a HyCoSy?

It provides a better view of the fallopian tubes than an internal ultrasound alone. It's also very safe as it doesn’t require an X-ray.

Is a HyCoSy right for me?

This procedure is suitable for those who:

• are having difficulty getting pregnant and would like to test the patency (state of being clear or blocked) of their fallopian tubes
• would like to undergo inter-uterine insemination (IUI)
• have endometriosis, pelvic infection or appendicitis.

What happens during a HyCoSy?

A HyCoSy is a transvaginal (internal) procedure that takes around half an hour: 

1. First you’ll have an internal ultrasound scan, so the doctor can take measurements of your uterus and ovaries. To do this, a speculum is placed in your vagina, similar to a smear test, and the ultrasound probe is inserted
2. Then, guided by ultrasound, a thin tube (catheter) is passed into your womb and a small amount of saline is injected to look for any abnormalities, such as polyps or fibroids (aqua scan).
3. Next, a sulphur-based dye is injected through the catheter into the womb and the fallopian tubes to examine them, also tracked using ultrasound.

Does a HyCoSy hurt?

A HyCoSy is unlikely to be painful, but you may feel some discomfort, similar to period cramps, during and for a short time afterwards, which can vary from woman to woman.

What happens after a HyCoSy?

You’ll be asked to wait a few minutes afterwards to make sure you don’t have a reaction to the dye. You’ll also need someone to drive you home afterwards in case you feel unwell.

Once you’re home, you should rest for a few hours. You may experience some light spotting, in which case you’ll need to use a sanitary towel – tampons may increase your risk of infection.