A sonohysterogram provides important details needed for diagnosing female infertility
Have you been trying to conceive without success? At ArkLaTex Fertility, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve their goals of creating or building their families. David T. Vandermolen, MD, MS, our Northern Louisiana fertility doctor, has the advanced training and expertise needed to perform female infertility testing, including a sonohysterogram, and to diagnose common fertility problems.
When do we recommend a female infertility evaluation?
If everything goes right, you have a 20% percent of conceiving during any given month. Typically, Dr. Vandermolen recommends that patients under age 35 try for 12 months before seeking additional help. That number drops to six months for women 35 years of age and older.
Consider female infertility testing if you have or are currently experiencing any of the following.
- Irregular or absent periods
- A history of reproductive issues, such as endometriosis
- Recurrent pregnancy losses
- Known hormone imbalances, such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or thyroid issues
- Any physical abnormalities of the reproductive system
For a complete fertility evaluation, our Northern Louisiana fertility doctor will take your medical history, order blood tests and perform a physical exam. These initial results will enable Dr. Vandermolen to determine next steps, which may include further testing.
What is a sonohysterogram?
Also referred to as saline infusion sonography (SIS), a sonohysterogram is an advanced transvaginal ultrasound that uses a saline solution and sound waves to produce images of the uterine cavity. Dr. Vandermolen uses this technology to visualize the structure of the uterus. A sonohysterogram can reveal potential roadblocks to conception, such as fibroids, polyps, an unusual uterine structure, or scar tissue.
What to expect during this imaging study
While you may feel nervous, the procedure is straightforward. Dr. Vandermolen begins with a transvaginal ultrasound to gather initial pictures of your uterus. Next, he inserts a catheter through the cervix to deliver the saline solution to the uterus. Once the uterine cavity is filled, our Northern Louisiana fertility doctor will take more images of the uterus.
The entire visit only takes 30 to 45 minutes. You may experience mild cramping or discomfort, which can be resolved with over-the-counter pain relievers and a heating pad. Some patients experience watery discharge after the procedure and light spotting for several days, so we recommend using a pad during this time.
The team at Ark LaTeX Fertility realizes that getting pregnant is not always as easy as it should be. Knowing when to consider female infertility testing can make the process less confusing. Contact our office to schedule a consultation appointment.