Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS) Fertility Scan in London

A Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS) scan, while generally considered less invasive than other uterine examinations, can cause discomfort or mild pain for some individuals. The procedure involves the insertion of a thin catheter into the uterus to infuse saline, which might lead to sensations similar to menstrual cramps during or shortly after the examination. However, the discomfort experienced is typically brief and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications. It’s important for patients to communicate with their healthcare provider about any concerns or discomfort they may anticipate or experience during an SIS scan, as this can help in making the procedure as comfortable as possible.

You can attempt to conceive immediately after a Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS) scan, as there are typically no required waiting periods post-procedure. The SIS scan, which involves infusing saline into the uterus to improve the imaging of the uterine lining and cavity, does not use ionising radiation and therefore poses no risk to conception efforts following the procedure. However, it’s advisable to discuss individual circumstances and any specific recommendations with your healthcare provider, as they can offer tailored advice based on your health and fertility status. This personalised guidance ensures you have the most accurate and relevant information for your situation.

The uterus, often referred to as the womb, is a vital organ in the female reproductive system, centrally located within the pelvis. This hollow, pear-shaped organ plays a pivotal role in reproductive and menstrual functions. Its primary function is to nurture and house a developing foetus during pregnancy, providing a secure and supportive environment for fetal growth and development. The uterine lining, known as the endometrium, thickens monthly in preparation for a potential pregnancy and sheds during menstruation if fertilisation does not occur. Additionally, the uterus is instrumental in menstrual cycle regulation and plays a key role in the process of childbirth, contracting to help deliver the baby through the cervix and into the birth canal. The health and function of the uterus are crucial for fertility, pregnancy, and the overall reproductive health of individuals with this organ.

Yes, ultrasound is generally considered safe for medical examinations. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body, and it does not use ionizing radiation, making it a safe and non-invasive option for many diagnostic tests.

Ultrasound has been widely used in medical practice for several decades and has a well-established safety record. There is no evidence that ultrasound causes any long-term harm to the body.

While a Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS) is generally considered a safe procedure, there is a minimal risk of infection, as with any procedure that involves the introduction of instruments into the body. The risk of infection from an SIS procedure arises from the introduction of a catheter through the cervix into the uterine cavity to infuse saline solution. However, this risk is exceedingly low due to the sterile techniques employed by healthcare professionals during the procedure.

To mitigate this risk, practitioners ensure the equipment is sterile, and the procedure is performed in a clean environment. Additionally, patients may be screened for any existing infections before the procedure to prevent exacerbation or spread. In the rare instance that an infection does occur, it is typically treatable with antibiotics.

Patients are advised to monitor for symptoms of infection, such as fever, severe pelvic pain, or unusual vaginal discharge following an SIS scan, and seek medical attention if these symptoms arise. Overall, the likelihood of infection from an SIS procedure is low, and the benefits of the procedure often outweigh the minimal risks when it is conducted under proper sterile conditions.

At London Pregnancy Clinic, we are specialists in fertility and reproductive medicine. For a more round picture of your fertility profile, our gynaecologists could recommend other examinations such as AMH test, or our full fertility health assessment package.

Other fertility screening available at our clinic includes:

1. HyCoSy Scan – non-invasive ultrasound procedure that utilises a contrast medium to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes and evaluate the uterine cavity, aiding in the diagnosis of infertility in women.
2. Follicle Tracking Scan – ultrasound examination used to monitor the development of ovarian follicles, crucial for timing fertility treatments and understanding ovulation patterns.
3. Endometrial Lining Scan– diagnostic ultrasound procedure that assesses the thickness and health of the uterine lining, important for evaluating fertility and menstrual irregularities.

At London Pregnancy Clinic the cost of a 3D SIS scan is £500 (+£30 surcharge on weekends or after 6pm) – this is all inclusive with no hidden fees. Saline Infusion Sonography is a highly specialised procedure, and requires expertise in ultrasound and reproductive medicine.

The scan is performed by a Consultant Gynaecologist assisted by a female clinical assistant, who is also acting as a chaperone throughout the whole procedure. All of our clinical staff are trained chaperones.