Hysterosonogram Risks
What is a hysterosonogram?
A hysterosonogram is a procedure designed to image the uterus and fallopian tubes. Typically, a catheter is placed in the cervical canal or uterine cavity and held in place by inflating a balloon at the tip. Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound is used to visualize the uterus while fluid is injected through the catheter into the uterine cavity. This fluid may be water, saline (salt-water), or special fluid designed to be seen during ultrasound. Hysterosonogram risks are uncommon.
What are some hysterosonogram risks?
Infection: Bacteria normally present in the vagina may be inadvertently transferred into the abdominal cavity by the catheter. These bacteria may cause an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, or other intra-abdominal organs. Treatment of infections could require the use of oral or intravenous antibiotics. Severe infections occasionally require surgery to remove infected tissue.
Bleeding: Small amounts of blood loss are common during this procedure and may result from trauma related to catheter placement or irritation of the uterine lining. Occasionally, dilation of the cervical canal to assist with catheter placement may cause some bleeding.Trauma: Manipulation of the cervix to assist with catheter placement can result in damage to the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes or adjacent structures. Trauma may require additional treatments such as surgery to repair damage. Allergic reaction: Before placing the catheter into the uterus, the cervix is cleaned with iodine. Iodine may cause an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals.
Possible Side effects of hysterosonogram
- Uterine cramps
- Uterine/ vaginal bleeding
- Dizziness, lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
Click for more information on hysterosonograms (sonohysterograms) or precautions after hysterosonogram .
