HyFoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Foam Sonography)
HyFoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Foam Sonography) is a diagnostic procedure used as part of the female fertility assessment to evaluate whether the fallopian tubes are open and functioning correctly.
This modern, minimally invasive, and well-tolerated procedure has become a preferred alternative to conventional hysterosalpingography (HSG) in many fertility clinics.
By assessing tubal patency without the need for radiation or iodine-based contrast agents, HyFoSy offers a comfortable and well-tolerated alternative while providing valuable diagnostic information.
What Is HyFoSy?
HyFoSy is a gynaecological procedure that combines a transvaginal ultrasound scan with the introduction of a specialised ultrasound foam through the cervix.
The foam acts as a contrast medium, allowing fertility specialists to observe in real time whether the fallopian tubes are open and how the fluid passes through them into the abdominal cavity.
Unlike traditional tubal patency tests, HyFoSy does not require X-rays or iodine-based contrast agents, making it a more comfortable and better-tolerated procedure for most patients.
What Is HyFoSy Used For?
HyFoSy is primarily used to:
- Confirm whether the fallopian tubes are open.
- Detect possible tubal blockages.
- Assess the uterine cavity.
- Form part of a comprehensive female fertility assessment.
The procedure is particularly useful for women experiencing difficulty conceiving, unexplained infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, or those preparing to start fertility treatment.
When Is HyFoSy Recommended?
The procedure should be performed after menstruation has ended and before ovulation, typically between days 6 and 11 of the menstrual cycle. This timing helps ensure both patient safety and accurate interpretation of the results. HyFoSy may be recommended in the following situations:
As part of an initial female fertility assessment.
Before undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI).
In women with no previous diagnosis of tubal disease.
When a less invasive alternative to conventional hysterosalpingography (HSG) is preferred.
How Is HyFoSy Performed?
HyFoSy is an outpatient procedure and does not require hospital admission.
The procedure is performed as follows:
- The patient is positioned in a standard gynaecological examination position.
- A thin catheter is gently inserted through the cervix.
- The ultrasound foam is slowly introduced into the uterine cavity.
- A transvaginal ultrasound scan is used to monitor the passage of the foam through the fallopian tubes in real time.
The entire procedure is relatively quick and is usually completed during a routine clinic visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About HyFoSy
HyFoSy is generally well tolerated.
Most women experience mild to moderate discomfort similar to menstrual cramps during the procedure.
In cases where a fallopian tube is blocked, the discomfort may be slightly more intense, although it is usually temporary and short-lived.
Anaesthesia is not normally required, although some patients may be advised to take a mild painkiller before the procedure.
HyFoSy offers several important advantages:
- No iodine-based contrast agents are required.
- No exposure to radiation.
- The procedure is performed using ultrasound guidance.
- Lower risk of adverse effects and complications.
- Greater patient comfort.
- Better overall tolerance.
For these reasons, HyFoSy is now considered the first-line test for assessing fallopian tube patency in many fertility clinics.
In some cases, the passage of the foam through the fallopian tubes may have a flushing effect, helping to clear minor debris and facilitating the passage of the egg and sperm.
As a result, some women may experience an increased chance of natural conception in the months following the procedure.
However, it is important to note that this is not the primary purpose of the test.
The main objective of HyFoSy is to assess tubal patency and support fertility diagnosis.
HyFoSy is considered a safe procedure with a very low risk of complications.
When complications do occur, they are generally minor and temporary, such as:
- Mild vaginal bleeding.
- Temporary pelvic discomfort or cramping.
- In rare cases, infection may occur.
HyFoSy is not recommended in the presence of:
- Active pelvic infection.
- Unexplained uterine bleeding.
- Pregnancy.
Your fertility specialist will assess your medical history and determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you before scheduling the test.
Book Your No-Obligation Consultation
At GAIA Fertility Clinic, HyFoSy plays an important role in understanding your reproductive health and identifying potential factors that may be affecting fertility.
Complete the form with your details and a member of our team will contact you to answer your questions and guide you towards the most appropriate option for your individual circumstances, with a personalised and transparent approach.
At GAIA Fertility Clinic, HyFoSy plays an important role in understanding your reproductive health and identifying potential factors that may be affecting fertility.
Complete the form with your details and a member of our team will contact you to answer your questions and guide you towards the most appropriate option for your individual circumstances, with a personalised and transparent approach.
