A fallopian tube patency test, or hysterosalpingosonography (HSSG), is performed to assess whether sperm and fertilized eggs can move freely through the fallopian tubes. Open fallopian tubes are necessary for natural conception, as fertilization typically occurs within the tube. The cilia inside functioning tubes actively guide sperm toward the released egg during ovulation.
After successful fertilization, the movement of the cilia changes direction, helping the fertilized egg travel toward the uterus. This journey takes about five days. Once in the uterus, the embryo can implant into the uterine lining. The fallopian tubes play an active role in conception.
A patency test is especially recommended if you have a history of chlamydia infection, endometriosis, or abdominal surgery.
The test is scheduled early in the menstrual cycle, shortly after menstruation and before the egg is released. Our staff will guide you in booking the appointment for the right time. Typically, the test is performed between days 6 and 10 of the cycle. Before the test, it’s important to confirm that you are not pregnant and that you have no genital infections.
We recommend taking a pain reliever about one hour before the procedure. The medication helps ease mild, cramp-like discomfort that can occur during or after the test.
The examination begins with a transvaginal ultrasound.
If the timing is right, a thin catheter is gently inserted into the uterus, and a small balloon at its tip is inflated with fluid. You may feel mild cramping, which usually passes quickly.
A sterile saline solution and air bubbles are then slowly introduced through the catheter, and the flow of the air bubbles is observed on ultrasound.
If the air bubbles are seen dispersing near the ovary, it indicates that the tubes are open. Sometimes, a temporary spasm may cause the tube to close momentarily to prevent the flow. Typically, the spasm goes away as the test continues.
The test also allows assessment of the uterine cavity structure and uterine lining.
In some cases, a special contrast agent (Foam Kit) may be used instead of the saline–air mixture. The treating clinic will select the most suitable method for you.
The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll receive an initial assessment during the procedure. If the tubes are open, you can try to conceive during the same cycle.
Some reddish discharge may occur later the same day. If you experience heavy bleeding, abdominal pain, or fever in the following days, contact the clinic for further evaluation.
After the examination, you may experience some stinging sensation in your shoulder. This is caused by the air bubbles used in the evaluation. This is not dangerous and usually goes away quite quickly.
If the test shows that the fallopian tubes are blocked, your doctor will discuss suitable treatment options with you. Even if only one tube is open, pregnancy may still occur naturally. If both tubes are blocked, IVF treatment is recommended. This enables fertilization without the fallopian tubes.
At Ovumia, you can book a HSSG test directly, if you have been referred by another doctor. You can book an appointment at one of our clinics.
At Ovumia, appointments are readily available.
