Hycosy is a straightforward procedure which is used to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes using advanced ultrasound to test for common symptoms such as blocked fallopian tubes. For patients who are struggling to conceive, a HyCoSy is often a type of investigation their consultant will advise is done.
Hycosy is a much safer alternative to older methods as it does not use X-rays or any kind of radiation. Instead, a contrast agent is passed into the uterus via a fine catheter, and the doctor tracks this agent using ultrasound.
Hycosy can also be used to check for abnormalities of the uterus and ovaries.
The Hycosy procedure is recommended for women who would like to test the patency of the fallopian tubes. Blocked fallopian tubes are a common cause of infertility, and is why Hycosy is one of the most commonly used investigations for infertility.
There are a number of conditions which may increase the risk of occlusions in the fallopian tubes, including endometriosis, pelvic infection and appendicitis. Women who wish to undergo inter-uterine insemination (IUI) are also advised to undergo a Hycosy before going through the IUI, to make sure that the sperm will be able to meet the egg.
On arrival, you will check in at reception, and the team will escort you to the waiting area to relax before your appointment. One of our Nurses or Healthcare Assistants will see you for observations and a pregnancy test.
You will then see your Consultant, who will discuss the procedure and ask for your consent. Please take this opportunity to ask any questions you may have. During your procedure, your Consultant and either a Registered Nurse or one of our Heath Care Assistants will be present.
The Hycosy procedure takes approximately half an hour. You will have an internal scan first; the doctor will take measurements of the uterus (womb), endometrium (lining of the womb) and ovaries.
Under ultrasound guidance, a thin tube will be passed into the womb through the neck of the womb, and a small amount (5-10 ml) fluid (normal saline) is injected into the womb to observe the presence of any abnormalities (polyp, fibroids etc.) in the lining of the womb. A sulphur-based medium called Sonoview is then passed into the womb and the fallopian tubes to assess the tubes.
A HyCoSy can be performed anytime between Day 8 – 18 of your cycle. If you are still bleeding heavily on the day your procedure has been booked for, please contact the clinic to reschedule your appointment.
It is also essential to be aware that we will not conduct the procedure if there is any chance you are pregnant.
Upon arrival, you will be asked to do a pregnancy test.
Everyone experiences pain differently, and the levels of pain for the Hycosy test vary from woman to woman. It is likely that you will feel some discomfort during the procedure similar to that of period pain, however, if you are experiencing pain or are considerably uncomfortable you can ask for the procedure to be stopped at any time.
At The Surrey Park Clinic, we see self-pay and private health insurance patients.
The cost of your HyCoSy procedure includes an observation with our Nursing/HCA team, consultation with one of our Consultant Gynaecologists and the procedure all on the same day:
£850.
You will also be asked to relax in our recovery room for about 30 – 45 minutes after your procedure. Following this, you will then be discharged by your consultant or Nurse.
We work with all major insurance companies from:
If you are covered by another insurance company that is not mentioned above, but would still like to have your outpatient HyCoSy at The Surrey Park Clinic, please contact your insurance company and inform them of this. They will likely be able to authorise this for you.
* Please phone our reception team to get the insurance code for this procedure. Kindly ensure you ask your insurance company to approve the initial consultation as well, if it’s not included within the code. *
When you are ready to book your appointment, please have your membership/policy number and authorisation code available to give to our patient coordinators when booking your appointment.
Many of our appointments including Ultrasound Scans, Consultations and Therapy Appointments are available to book online by following this link. Alternatively, for fertility and all other appointments, please call 01483 454016