At SR Women & Children Specialists, we offer the latest in women’s diagnostic imaging — including the Saline Sonohysterogram (SIS) — to give you accurate answers about your reproductive health with minimal discomfort. Whether you’re facing infertility, abnormal bleeding, or planning for pregnancy, SIS can be a valuable, less invasive tool compared to traditional methods.
What is a Saline Sonohysterogram?
A Saline Sonohysterogram, also known as Saline Infusion Sonography (SIS), is a specialised ultrasound scan where sterile saline is gently infused into the uterus. This fluid expands the uterine cavity, allowing our specialists to obtain clear, real-time images of the uterine lining and fallopian tubes using a transvaginal ultrasound.
It’s a highly useful procedure for identifying uterine abnormalities and evaluating tubal patency (whether your fallopian tubes are open), especially in women trying to conceive.
When is SIS Recommended?
You may be advised to undergo SIS if you have:
- Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
- Suspected uterine polyps or fibroids
- Repeated miscarriages
- Difficulty conceiving
- Abnormal results from a routine pelvic ultrasound
The test is typically scheduled between Day 6 and Day 12 of your menstrual cycle (after your period but before ovulation).
Advantages of SIS Over Conventional Ultrasound
While a transvaginal ultrasound can show the shape and size of the uterus and ovaries, it cannot always detect small or internal abnormalities like:
- Uterine polyps
- Submucosal fibroids
- Adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Septate or bicornuate uterus
By expanding the uterine cavity with saline, SIS allows for much greater clarity and diagnostic accuracy.
SIS vs HSG (Tubal Patency Testing)
If you’re undergoing fertility evaluation, checking whether your fallopian tubes are open (tubal patency) is critical. Traditionally, this is done using Hysterosalpingography (HSG) — an X-ray test with iodine dye. However, SIS with air contrast or foam (Sonohysterography with contrast, or HyCoSy) offers many benefits:
1. No Radiation Exposure
SIS uses ultrasound, unlike HSG which uses X-rays. This makes SIS safer, especially for women planning pregnancy.
2. Less Discomfort
Most women find SIS significantly less painful than HSG. The saline and air mixture used is gentler than the iodine-based dye in HSG.
3. Better Uterine Visualization
SIS not only checks the tubes but also provides a clearer view of the uterine cavity, allowing us to diagnose additional problems like fibroids or adhesions in the same session.
4. Lower Risk of Allergic Reactions
HSG involves iodine-based contrast, which may cause allergic reactions. SIS uses saline or air–saline mix, which is very safe.
5. More Convenient
SIS can be performed right in the clinic, without the need for a radiology department. The entire process takes about 15–20 minutes and you can go home immediately after.
What Happens During the SIS Procedure?
At SR Women & Children Specialists Centre, we ensure your comfort every step of the way:
- Preparation: You’ll lie on an exam table and empty your bladder beforehand.
- Catheter Insertion: A speculum is inserted, followed by a thin catheter placed into the uterus.
- Saline Infusion: Sterile saline (and sometimes air) is gently introduced to expand the uterus.
- Ultrasound Imaging: A transvaginal ultrasound is done to assess the uterus and fallopian tubes.
You may feel mild cramping, but most patients report minimal discomfort. If wish to learn more please read on what to expect when you see a gynaecologist.
Safe, Simple, and Insightful
SIS is a safe, low-risk, and highly informative diagnostic tool. At SR Women & Children Specialists, our experienced all-women O&G team uses SIS to help patients receive timely, accurate diagnoses — especially when preparing for pregnancy.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you’re facing abnormal bleeding, fertility concerns, or need a detailed uterine evaluation, Saline Sonohysterogram might be the right choice. Let our compassionate specialists guide you toward better reproductive health.
- Visit us at Suite 206/207, SCC Level 2, Gleneagles Johor, Medini, Iskandar Puteri
- [+6011-19923585]
- Convenient online appointment bookings available www.srwomenchildrenspecialists.com.my
