Knowledge | Is uterine ultrasound necessary? A doctor explains sonohysterography and its purpose
If you have postmenopausal bleeding, recurrent miscarriage, or difficulty conceiving, your doctor may recommend a specialized uterine ultrasound called sonohysterography. It provides a clearer view inside the uterus than standard transvaginal ultrasound.
According to medical information reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD, sonohysterography can identify problems that standard ultrasound may miss, including abnormal growths, fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, and uterine-cavity abnormalities such as a septate uterus.
How is the test performed?
First, the doctor performs a transvaginal ultrasound by inserting a slender ultrasound probe, or transducer, into the vagina to image the uterus.
The probe is removed and a speculum gently opens the vagina so the cervix can be seen. A thin catheter is inserted into the uterus and remains in place after the speculum is removed.
The ultrasound probe is reinserted while sterile saline is introduced through the catheter, slightly expanding the uterus. This may cause discomfort or mild cramping.
The doctor observes the uterus and endometrium as the fluid enters. The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Do I need this test?
Your doctor will decide based on your condition. It cannot be performed during menstruation or pregnancy. A pregnancy test is usually required beforehand.
What do the results mean?
A normal result means the uterus has a normal shape and no abnormal tissue was found.
An abnormal result may reveal fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or a uterine abnormality. Your doctor will discuss next steps.
What happens afterward?
Most people can drive themselves home. Mild cramps, spotting, or watery discharge may last a few days. Although infection risk is very low, some doctors recommend avoiding vaginal insertion, including sex and tampons, for several days.
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop:
A temperature above 100.4°F (about 38°C)
Foul-smelling discharge
Heavy bleeding
Severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication
Knowledge | Is uterine ultrasound necessary? A doctor explains sonohysterography and its purpose
Knowledge | Is uterine ultrasound necessary? A doctor explains sonohysterography and its purpose
If you have postmenopausal bleeding, recurrent miscarriage, or difficulty conceiving, your doctor may recommend a specialized uterine ultrasound called sonohysterography. It provides a clearer view inside the uterus than standard transvaginal ultrasound.
According to medical information reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD, sonohysterography can identify problems that standard ultrasound may miss, including abnormal growths, fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, and uterine-cavity abnormalities such as a septate uterus.
How is the test performed?
First, the doctor performs a transvaginal ultrasound by inserting a slender ultrasound probe, or transducer, into the vagina to image the uterus.
The probe is removed and a speculum gently opens the vagina so the cervix can be seen. A thin catheter is inserted into the uterus and remains in place after the speculum is removed.
The ultrasound probe is reinserted while sterile saline is introduced through the catheter, slightly expanding the uterus. This may cause discomfort or mild cramping.
The doctor observes the uterus and endometrium as the fluid enters. The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Do I need this test?
Your doctor will decide based on your condition. It cannot be performed during menstruation or pregnancy. A pregnancy test is usually required beforehand.
What do the results mean?
A normal result means the uterus has a normal shape and no abnormal tissue was found.
An abnormal result may reveal fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or a uterine abnormality. Your doctor will discuss next steps.
What happens afterward?
Most people can drive themselves home. Mild cramps, spotting, or watery discharge may last a few days. Although infection risk is very low, some doctors recommend avoiding vaginal insertion, including sex and tampons, for several days.
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop:
A temperature above 100.4°F (about 38°C)
Foul-smelling discharge
Heavy bleeding
Severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication
Source:
Collected online