The fallopian tubes run between the ovaries and the womb, and are the passage by which sperm swim to the egg, and the fertilised egg travels to the womb ready for implantation.
In order for natural conception to take place, or for successful IUI or DI treatment, both fallopian tubes should be open – this is called tubal patency.
There are various tests for tubal patency, at NUH Life we offer hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or a laparoscopy and dye.
Your consultant will help discuss with you which test is right for you, depending on your medical history and other test results.
HSG
The majority of patients will have a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) which is a simple outpatient procedure performed in the X-Ray Department by one of our specially trained fertility nurses. During the procedure, a dye that is visible on X-Ray is inserted into the womb through a fine tube through the cervix. If the tubes are open, the nurse will see on the X-Ray that the tubes fill up with dye and then empty again – this is called “fill and spill”.
HSG does not require any anaesthetic and you are free to go home after the procedure. More information about this procedure can be found in our separate HSG leaflet which can be found in our patient information leaflet.
Laparascopy and dye test (Lap & dye)
Lap & dye testing is an minor key hole surgery procedure usually performed under general anaesthetic. Patients are usually able go home on the same day of the operation. The dye test shows whether the fallopian tubes are open or blocked and the laparoscopy also checks for endometriosis, pelvic infection, adhesions, ovarian cysts or fibroids.
During the procedure the gynaecologist will make small incisions in your abdomen and use a fine telescope to visualise the tubes, ovaries and uterus (womb). A small amount of gas (carbon dioxide) inflates the abdomen to allow a clear view inside. The patency of tubes is checked by pushing blue dye through a fine tube through the cervix (much like an HSG). If the fallopian tubes are open, the surgeon can see the fill and spill of the blue dye using the telescope.
What if my tubes are blocked?
If no “fill and spill” is seen with an HSG test, we may recommend a lap and dye test to follow up. If at lap and dye the tubes are confirmed as blocked, we will recommend IVF treatment. We don’t offer IVF at NUH Life, but we can support you to find the local IVF clinic that is right for you.