Sonohystogram

Last night I had my sonohystogram in preparation for an IVF cycle. Before beginning any IVF cycle a series of tests are necessary. The male and female will need blood work. The female needs a pap smear, cervical cultures, a physical exam, a transvaginal ultrasound and either a sonohystogram or (if you're a first timer) a Hysterosalpingogram (which is more invasive and painful).

A sonohystogram is: an office based ultrasound procedure that can determine if there are abnormalities inside the uterus that might interfere with pregnancy. It is important to have an evalaution of the uterine cavity with a sonohysterogram or other method before proceeding with an IVF cycle.

This test involves no radiation, and there are very few risks from the procedure. Compared to a regular ultrasound, a sonohysterogram is better at detecting abnormalities on the inside walls of the uterus because it involves infusing sterile fluid inside the uterus. This way, the walls of uterus separate from each other and any abnormalities that might have been hiding right along the sides of the walls will be easily identified. from: http://www.ivf1.com/sonohysterogram/

Having to go through a battery of tests every time we want to even TRY gets frustrating. I have had more of these tests than I can ever remember. In the beginning I didn't mind. They were steps I had to take to get closer to being a Mom. Now they feel like a bunch of unnecessary hoops.

While the sono isn't fun it is a whole lot easier than an HSG. I had that at the beginning of my TTC journey and it was AWFUL!

The other good thing is that the sono was clear. That means as of right now we have the "all clear" to begin a cycle. We're not 100% ready yet (trying to lock in our timing) but it's nice to know when we're ready we can jump back in!