The sonohysterogram is completed after menstruation has ended and before ovulation occurs. The timing of the procedure allows for optimal viewing of the uterine walls, since they are at their thinnest at this point in a woman’s cycle. The patient will often call the doctor’s office on the first day of her cycle to schedule the appointment.
Purpose of the SHG
The sonohysterogram allows the doctor to evaluate the uterus for the causes of
- Infertility
- Recurrent miscarriage
- Abnormal bleeding
The saline ultrasound may also be used as a pre- or post- operative surgery evaluation and for other evaluation purposes.
Preparing for the Saline Ultrasound
It is important that the patient is not pregnant or suffering an active infection during the saline ultrasound. The doctor may require the patient to be tested for pregnancy and/or infection prior to the exam. Some doctors also prescribe a round of antibiotics to be taken in the week before the test to prevent infection.
Due to cramping caused by the SHG, the doctor may suggest a full dose of over-the-counter pain medication to be taken just prior to the procedure.
Procedure
The sonohysterogram may be performed in the physicians office, given the office is equipped with an ultrasound device. The entire procedure can be completed within 5-10 minutes. The patient will be asked to disrobe from the waist down and position herself on the table with stirrups. The doctor may perform a brief pelvic exam, and will then:
- Insert a speculum into the vagina
- Insert a catheter through the cervix and into the uterus
- Insert a transvaginal ultrasound wand into the vagina
- Inject a saline solution into the uterus (through the catheter)
Results
The structure of the uterus is seen immediately on the ultrasound device. The saline helps to highlight the uterus and any irregularities within it, including structural abnormalities, fibroids, polyps and scar tissue. Many of these problems can be surgically corrected. The doctor will discuss treatment options with the patient upon the discovery of any abnormalities.
Risks
Cramping and spotting after the sonohysterogram are common, and the patient should not be concerned if she experiences these symptoms. However, infection is a slight possibility. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, infection occurs in 1% of patients after undergoing sonohysterogram, and patients with tubal disease may have an increased risk. The patient should notify her doctor, in the days following the procedure, if she has:
- Abnormally heaving bleeding
- Intense and continued pain
- A fever over 100° F
Other Names for the Sonohysterogram
The sonohysterogram is also called
- Saline Ultrasound
- Saline Sonogram
- Hysterosonogram
- Saline Infusion Sonogram
- Saline Infusion Sonohysterography
Alternative Testing
There are other tests that may be used in examining the structures of the uterus. These include the hysterosalipingogram (HSG) and hysteroscopy.
Kristen O'Hara - I graduated from college with a B.S. in elementary education. After teaching third grade for two years, I chose to stay home with my ...
