A contrast scan may be advised to gain further information about the uterine cavity. This information may help determine whether surgery is recommended to remove a polyp or fibroid located within the uterine cavity before fertility treatment is carried out, as these can reduce the chances of success.
A contrast scan is a short procedure lasting approximately 10 minutes in which a speculum is inserted into the vagina, the cervix is cleaned and a small tube (catheter) is gently inserted through the opening of the cervix into the uterus. The speculum is then removed and a vaginal scan probe used to visualise the uterus, while fluid is injected through the catheter into the uterine cavity. The fluid separates the walls of the lining of the uterus and makes it easier to see abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps within the uterine cavity.
Antibiotics are given to minimise the risk of developing an infection after the procedure (the risk of infection is less than 1%). The procedure is not usually very uncomfortable but may cause some period like cramps in some patients.
