What Do the Fallopian Tubes Do?
Fallopian tubes are the anatomical structures that connect the ovaries to the uterus.
Their primary role is to transport the egg after ovulation, allow it to meet sperm travelling up from the uterus, facillitate fertilization and move the resulting embryo into the uterus for implantation.
This process is essential for natural conception — and even a small blockage or dysfunction in the tubes can prevent pregnancy.
What is Fallopian Tube Assessment?
Fallopian tube assessment is a key diagnostic procedure that determines whether your fallopian tubes are open and functioning properly — a critical factor for natural conception, as the tubes allow the egg and sperm to meet. If the Fallopian tubes are blocked neither sperm, oocytes, nor embryos may pass through, thereby precluding fertilization and uterine implantation. If the Fallopian tubes are not blocked (patent) but are swollen with internal fluid (hydrosalpinx), embryos may have difficulty being transported along the walls of the tube to the uterus.
At Reproart Georgian-American Center for Reproductive Medicine, we use ultrasonography with an Echo-contrast Foam Sonohysterography (Foam SonoHSG) — also known internationally as HyFoSy — to evaluate tubal patency. This method uses a sterile, ultrasound-visible foam instead of traditional X-ray contrast agents, offering a safe, accurate, and more comfortable alternative. When the foam can be seen travelling all the way from the uterus to the ends of the Fallopian tubes, we conclude that the Fallopian tubes are patent. A Fallopian tube that is enlarged and swollen indicates the presence of a hydrosalpinx.
Why is Fallopian Tube Assessment Important?
Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes are a common cause of infertility. Early and accurate diagnosis allows you and your Reproductive Endocrinologist to make informed decisions about your treatment path — whether it involves natural conception, surgical correction, or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF that bypass blocked or damaged Fallopian tubes.
When is Fallopian Tube Assessment Recommended?
Fallopian tube assessment may be recommended if you:
- Have been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success
- Have a history of pelvic infections, endometriosis, or abdominal/pelvic surgery
- Have experienced an ectopic pregnancy
- Are preparing for IUI or IVF
- Have risk factors for tubal disease or previous tubal surgery
An early assessment helps your Reproductive Endocrinologist detect possible tubal blockages or dysfunction and create a tailored plan for your fertility care.
How is the Procedure Performed at Reproart?
We use Foam SonoHSG under real-time ultrasound guidance. The procedure involves:
- Inserting a soft, thin catheter through the cervix into the uterus
- Gently introducing a sterile, specialized foam into the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes
- Observing the foam flow via transvaginal ultrasound to assess whether the tubes are open, blocked or swollen.
This technique avoids radiation exposure, eliminates the need for cervical clamps, and ensures a high level of comfort.
Advantages of Foam SonoHSG (HyFoSy)
- No exposure to radiation
- Minimal discomfort — most patients do not require anesthesia
- Non-traumatic for the uterus and tubal lining
- Allows natural conception attempts in the same cycle
- No negative impact on egg or sperm
- Quick recovery, performed in a routine outpatient setting
- The foam and its ultrasound-visible fluid dissipate within several days
How to Prepare for the Procedure
- The procedure is typically scheduled between cycle days 7–12, after menstruation and before ovulation
- A vaginal smear (bacterioscopy) is required beforehand to rule out active infections
- Avoid unprotected intercourse from the start of your cycle until after the procedure
- Inform your doctor if there is any chance of pregnancy
Our team will provide personalized preparation instructions to ensure your safety and comfort.
When Should the Procedure Be Postponed?
Foam SonoHSG will not be performed if:
- You have a current pelvic infection (e.g., vaginitis, salpingitis, or PID)
- Pregnancy is suspected or confirmed
- You have a known allergy to components of the foam (rare)
In these cases, your Reproductive Endocrinologist will guide you through next steps and rescheduling.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
- The full procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes
- You may feel mild cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, during or shortly afterward
- Most patients return to normal activities the same day
Understanding Your Results
- If the foam passes freely through both tubes, they are considered open (patent)
- If the foam does not pass or indicates swollen tubes, a blockage or dysfunction may be present
Your Reproductive Endocrinologist will review the results with you in detail and recommend next steps — whether it’s trying naturally, proceeding with IVF, or considering further evaluation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We know that fertility care often brings up many questions — and that every journey is different. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience only mild cramping. Foam SonoHSG is well tolerated and much gentler than traditional X-ray-based HSG.
Is anesthesia needed?
No. The procedure is performed without anesthesia and is usually described as mildly uncomfortable, if at all.
How accurate is this method?
Foam SonoHSG offers high diagnostic accuracy comparable to X-ray HSG — without radiation or trauma to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
