Having hystero contrast sonography (HyCoSy)
Date issued: July 2026
Review date: August 2028
Leaflet section: Imaging
PDF: Having hystero contrast sonography (HyCoSy).pdf [pdf] 153KB
The aim of this information sheet is to answer some of the questions you may have about having hystero-contrast sonography (or HyCoSy for short). It explains the benefits, risks and alternatives of the procedure as well as what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions and concerns, please speak to a doctor, nurse or healthcare specialist caring for you.
What is HyCoSy?
HyCoSy is an examination of your fallopian tubes. It is here in the fallopian tubes that the female egg meets with the male sperm to fertilize the egg.
It is important that your fallopian tubes are open so this can happen - if there is a blockage, it might stop you becoming pregnant. Fallopian tubes can become blocked i.e. following a pelvic infection, or after surgery.
What are the benefits of having a HyCoSy?
HyCoSy can show if your fallopian tubes are open or closed. The test also allows us to examine the cavity of your uterus (womb) to check that there are no problems that might affect getting pregnant.
Are there any risks associated with a HyCoSy?
There is a small risk of a pelvic infection from this test. To minimize this, you will be provided with a prescription for 5 days of an oral antibiotic when you are seen in the fertility clinic. It is essential that you bring this with you to your appointment, as it can only be dispensed at the hospital pharmacy. If you do not bring your prescription the day of your test, it will have to be rescheduled. In the 5 days following the test, you should contact your GP or call 111 if you begin feeling unwell, and tell them you have had this test.
You may feel some pelvic discomfort during HyCoSy (it’s like a mild period cramp). We suggest you take two Ibuprofen 200mg tablets, or two 500mg tablets of Paracetamol one hour before the procedure, in order to reduce the amount of discomfort you may experience.
Occasionally this test may cause you to bleed slightly once it has finished. The bleeding will not be heavy and should settle down in a day or two. Please use pads during this time and do not insert a tampon.
In about 5% of HyCoSy tests, the pictures produced are unclear. If this is the case, you may need further tests.
Are there any alternatives?
There is another test called a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG), which looks at the fallopian tubes using X-rays instead of ultrasound. This test is used for patients who have had previous pregnancies, pelvic infections or pelvic surgery.
The fallopian tubes can also be assessed by a simple operation called a laparoscopy, which involves a general anaesthetic. This test is reserved for patients with severe pelvic pain, or as a further test when the ultrasound or X-ray test is unclear.
What do I need to do to prepare for a HyCoSy?
On the first day of your period, telephone 01752 439287 or 439286 between 9am and 3pm to book your test. Please ring on Monday if this falls on a weekend. The test will usually be done within ten days of your period starting but if there is a shortage of appointments, you may be asked to ring back when your next period starts.
You may eat and drink normally before and after your appointment.
As already mentioned you may have slight vaginal bleeding after the test, and you are advised to bring a panty-liner or sanitary towel.
From the first day of your period on the month of your appointment, please use protection (a condom) if you have sex. You need to do this from the time you book the test, until after your subsequent period.
Asking for your consent
We want to involve you in all the decisions about your care and treatment. If you decide to go ahead, you will be asked to sign a consent form on the day. This confirms that you agree to have the procedure and understand what it involves.
What happens during the HyCoSy test?
The person who carries out the test will be an ultrasonographer or a doctor or nurse. He or she will:
-
Ask you to lie down (the first part of the test is very similar to a smear test). Your legs will be supported in stirrups and we will ensure you are comfortable at all times.
-
Gently insert a speculum into your vagina (a speculum is a plastic device to allow us to see the neck of your womb).
-
Slowly insert a narrow plastic tube (catheter) through the neck of your womb (cervix).
-
Slowly inflate a tiny balloon on the catheter in order to keep it in position.
-
Pass a small amount of water through the catheter to show up the lining and cavity of your uterus. We will then carry out an internal ultrasound scan of the uterus.
-
Pass a special ultrasound fluid called EXEM foam through the catheter to show the outline of your fallopian tubes. We will then carry out an internal ultrasound scan of the fallopian tubes. EXEM foam is made up of a harmless solution, which will be absorbed by your body after the scan.
The test takes 15 to 20 minutes. It takes place in the ultrasound department, which is in X Ray West at Derriford Hospital. If you have any questions or concerns before the examination, please phone us on 01752 439287 or 439286.
What happens after the test?
At the end of the test we can usually let you know the findings. If any further tests need to be done, these will be organized after the day of the test.
If your fallopian tubes are blocked, or there are problems with your uterus, your doctor will explain the options for treatment.
What do I need to do after I go home?
You can go home immediately after the test. You can carry out normal daily activities and continue having protected intercourse until after your next period. Please complete your course of antibiotics. If you feel unwell, or notice a discharge, please call your GP or 111 for advice immediately, and tell them about this test.
Will I have a follow-up appointment?
Yes. You will be seen in the fertility clinic, usually within 3 months.
Read further information about HyCoSy procedure and room set up
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
-
01752 439694
