Indication(s):
Infertility; Known risk factors for tubal blockage e.g. endometriosis, history of pelvic infection, history of pelvic or abdominal surgeries.
The Procedure:
No anaesthesia is required. If you are worried about pain, you may take 2 tablets of paracetamol an hour before the procedure; A transvaginal ultrasound scan of the pelvis is performed to examine the pelvic organs including the uterus and the ovaries; A speculum is passed into the vagina, followed by cleansing of the vagina and the cervix with antiseptic solution; A small catheter is inserted through the cervix into the womb; Sterile normal saline is instilled into the cavity of the womb to check for intra-cavitary lesions such as endometrial polyp or submucosal fibroid; The contrast Foam is instilled in order to visualize the fallopian tubes; Ultrasound examination is performed during instillation of normal saline and the contrast Foam.
Benefits of Procedure:
Diagnostic value: Identification of tubal blockage, exclusion of uterine anomalies; No therapeutic value.
Risks and complications (may include, but are not limited to the following):
It may cause abdominal cramps, vaginal spotting and vaginal discharge after the procedure. Most of these discomforts are short-lasting; Pelvic infection and uterine perforation are serious but rare complications (<1%).
Risks of not having the procedure:
Diagnosis cannot be ascertained.
After the procedure:
The vaginal spotting may last for a few days.
Alternatives:
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG); Laparoscopy with chromotubation.
Follow up:
Further surgery may be required if there is tubal blockage.
Remarks: The information contained is very general. The list of complications is not exhaustive and other unforeseen complications may occasionally occur. In special patient groups, the actual risk may be different. For further information, please contact your doctor.
