A sonohysterogram, also known as Saline Infusion Sonography (SIS), is an enhanced ultrasound procedure designed to get a clear view of the uterine cavity and its lining. It is used to identify abnormalities like polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue that might be causing unusual bleeding or fertility issues. The total appointment time typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, though the actual diagnostic imaging process is much shorter. This variation depends on the clinic’s workflow, patient preparation, and the complexity of the anatomy. Understanding the difference between the procedure length and the full appointment block is helpful for planning the day.
The Full Time Commitment
Patients should plan to block out a full hour for the entire sonohysterogram appointment. This total time commitment is broken down into distinct stages that occur before, during, and immediately after the diagnostic scan. The initial check-in and administrative paperwork often take the first few minutes, followed by a brief wait time.
After being called back, the preparation phase involves changing into a gown and providing a urine sample for a pregnancy test, a required safety step. This pre-scan preparation, including a discussion with the provider about medical history and the procedure, can take up to 15 to 20 minutes. The time spent in the examination room is not solely dedicated to the internal scan.
The active procedure typically requires about 10 to 15 minutes of hands-on time within the overall appointment. Once the scan is complete, the final phase involves dressing and a brief post-procedure consultation with the physician or technician. This discussion usually covers initial findings and any immediate post-procedure instructions.
Detailed Steps and Timing of the Procedure Itself
The actual time spent performing the diagnostic part of the sonohysterogram is relatively short. The procedure begins with the patient positioned on the examination table. The first step involves an initial transvaginal ultrasound, which establishes a baseline view of the uterus and ovaries and typically takes around five minutes.
Following this initial scan, a speculum is inserted to visualize the cervix, which is then cleansed with an antiseptic solution. A thin, flexible catheter is gently passed through the cervical opening and into the uterine cavity, a step that may cause mild cramping and generally lasts less than five minutes. The speculum is then removed, and the transvaginal ultrasound probe is reinserted alongside the catheter.
The diagnostic phase starts when sterile saline solution is injected through the catheter and into the uterus under real-time ultrasound guidance. The saline distends the uterine walls, creating a clear contrast between the fluid and the uterine lining, which allows the physician to identify abnormalities. This real-time imaging and saline injection usually lasts only between five and ten minutes.
Necessary Preparation and Scheduling Logistics
Proper scheduling is a determining factor for the success and efficiency of the sonohysterogram. The procedure is scheduled between day 6 and day 12 of the menstrual cycle, after menstrual bleeding has completely stopped. This timing is chosen because the uterine lining, or endometrium, is thinnest during this phase, allowing for the clearest visualization of any growths or structural issues.
Patients are advised to take an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, approximately 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled appointment time. This preventative measure helps minimize the uterine cramping that can occur during the catheter insertion and saline injection. Taking the medication beforehand ensures the pain reliever is active when the procedure begins, contributing to a smoother process.
In addition to timing and medication, patients are typically advised to empty their bladder completely before the procedure. Unlike some abdominal ultrasounds, a full bladder is not required for a transvaginal scan, and an empty bladder contributes to greater comfort during the examination. Following all pre-procedure instructions ensures that the clinical staff can proceed immediately, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Post-Procedure Expectations
The recovery period following a sonohysterogram is short, and patients can typically return to their normal daily activities immediately after leaving the clinic. It is common to experience some mild cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, for a few hours after the procedure. This is a temporary side effect resulting from the uterus contracting after the saline solution has been introduced and drains out.
Patients should anticipate a watery discharge, which is the saline solution leaving the body, and some light spotting over the next day or two. Wearing a panty liner or light pad is recommended to manage this temporary discharge. These mild side effects should resolve quickly and do not require any restriction of activity.
The communication of results varies between clinics. Sometimes the interpreting physician will provide preliminary findings immediately after the procedure. In other cases, a detailed report and images are sent to the referring doctor, who then discusses the findings with the patient at a follow-up appointment.