HyCoSy procedure and room set up
Date issued: August 2026
Review date: August 2028
Leaflet section: Imaging/Fertility services
PDF: HyCoSy procedure and room set up [pdf] 223KB
What is HyCoSy?
A non-ionising ultrasound fertility investigation that usually takes around 40 minutes.
HyCoSy helps to evaluate:
· If the fallopian tubes are open
· Assess for abnormalities within the uterus
This information helps guide the next steps in your fertility care.
Before the procedure
Your appointment is usually arranged between days 6 and 12 of your menstrual cycle.
You are advised to:
· Get your antibiotic medication from the pharmacy.
· Take pain relief an hour before your appointment, unless advised not to.
· Bring someone for support
· Bring a sanitary pad (don’t worry if you forget, we have some to give).
· Empty your bladder
During the procedure
· On arrival, the sonographer will explain the procedure, answer any questions, and obtain your consent
· You will be given privacy to undress from the waist down
· You will then lie on the examination couch, similar to the position used during a smear test
Procedure steps
· Initial transvaginal scan to assess uterus and ovaries
· Cold sterile clean of the vulval area
· Speculum is inserted to see cervix
· Sterile clean of the cervix (inside - top of vagina)
· Catheter inserted - Some people describe this as a period pain cramp - dependent on patient
· Speculum removed
· Transvaginal probe re-inserted
· Contrast injected and tubes assessed
· If the tubes are open, the contrast flows freely through them
What does it feel like?
Experiences differ. Some people describe the procedure as:
· Variable, dependent on pain tolerance. Some describe like strong period cramps, or a feeling of pressure
· Some people feel almost nothing, while others may find the experience painful
· The team will talk you through each step
· You can tell them if you need a moment to pause. You remain in control throughout the procedure
After the procedure
· Most people are able to go home immediately and return to their normal daily activities.
· We might keep you for a few minutes if we think you need some time to recover.
You may notice:
· Mild period-like cramps
· Light spotting or watery vaginal discharge.
These symptoms usually settle within 24-48 hours
Contact your healthcare provider
If you develop:
· Severe or worsening pain
· Heavy bleeding
· Fever or chills
· Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
These symptoms are uncommon but could indicate an infection.
Will I receive my results straight away?
The sonographer will usually discuss the initial findings after the examination
A final report will be sent to the fertility specialist to guide the next steps of your treatment or investigation.
Tips to help reduce anxiety
Feeling nervous before a HyCoSy is very common. It may help to remember:
· We perform this test regularly and understand that patients may feel anxious.
· It might be uncomfortable but is usually quite quick.
· Taking slow, steady breaths and consciously relaxing your pelvic floor muscles can make the examination more comfortable.
· You can ask questions at any time
· You can request that the sonographer explains each step before it happens.
· Having someone accompany you to the appointment can provide reassurance.
· Many patients say that the anticipation was worse than the procedure itself.
What does the HyCoSy room look like?
- Private, comfortable ultrasound room
- Only sterile, single-use equipment comes into contact with you
- Your comfort, dignity, and privacy are our priority
The ultrasound room
Sterile trolley set-up
Only the equipment needed for your examination is used. We aim to provide a calm, comfortable environment, with conversation throughout if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the test painful?
Pain threshold differs. Some people experience mild discomfort, period-like cramps or even pain. Also, some people have sweats and/or nausea, that settles down quickly.
How long does it take?
Usually takes around 15-20 minute. The whole appointment lasts about 40 minutes.
Can I drive afterwards?
Yes. Most patients are able to drive themselves home and resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
Will I receive my results straight away?
Often, the sonographer will immediately discuss the findings. Images will be reviewed and a final report sent to your fertility specialist.
For any questions, please contact your fertility clinic. They will be happy to provide further advice and reassurance.
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
