Everything you need to know about the hycosy test:
What is it?
‘Hycosy’ is a contraction of the full name ‘hysterosalpingo contrast sonography’. Also known as a tubal patency test, it is a non-invasive ultrasound test to check the fallopian tubes for blockages or damage. Its purpose is to ascertain whether an egg can pass safely and easily through the fallopian tubes during ovulation. Furthermore, the procedure can assess the uterus, identifying congenital uterine abnormalities by ultrasound.
When do I have one?
A hycosy should be carried out somewhere between day 6 and day 12 of your period, depending on the length of your cycle.
What does a hycosy test involve?
The first step is a transvaginal ultrasound to assess the pelvis. Then a small catheter is inserted through the vagina, the cervix and then into the uterus. Initially, saline is instilled through the catheter, enabling the uterus to be visualised, after which a gel is instilled; this gel (sometimes referred to as a ‘contrast medium’) is visible by ultrasound and your gynaecologist can see if it travels unimpeded through the fallopian tubes.
The whole procedure takes just 10 to 15 minutes. To safeguard against infection, you will be prescribed a three-day course of antibiotics. It is a highly skilled procedure and should only be performed by a trained specialist. London female gynaecologist Miss Amanda Tozer offers hycosy in addition to the full range of fertility screening tests and treatments at her Harley Street clinic.
Is it painful?
You may experience some mild discomfort while the saline is instilled and some period-like cramping. To ease this, Miss Tozer recommends her patients take paracetamol or ibuprofen at least 30 minutes before the procedure.
When will I get the results of my hycosy?
At her London fertility clinic, Miss Amanda Tozer will share the results with you immediately and discuss their implications.