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  7. Tubal Patency Testing (HSG/HyCoSy) Eligibility (690)

Tubal Patency Testing (HSG/HyCoSy) Eligibility (690)

Objectives

To outline the criteria for tubal patency testing by HSG or HyCoSy in GG&C.

Audience

Healthcare professionals involved in the care of women with infertility.

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This guideline discusses the use of hysterosalpingo contrast sonography (HyCoSy) and hysterosalpingography (HSG) in the investigation and management of tubal causes of infertility.

It should be noted that these investigations are not appropriate and should not be requested in the following circumstances,

  • the investigation of tubal patency following a female sterilisation procedure

Or

  • as an assessment of the endometrial cavity in women with heavy menstrual bleeding, inter-menstrual bleeding or post-coital bleeding

Inclusion Criteria

  • Couples in a relationship who are trying to achieve pregnancy (Heterosexual couples after confirmation of a normal semen analysis, or couples wishing to use donor sperm for treatment)
  • BMI 35 or below
  • Single women may be offered the investigation if they are pursuing fertility treatment privately

Exclusion criteria

  • Likely unexplained infertility, where outcome of tubal patency test is highly unlikely to change onward treatment plan
  • One tube already known to be damaged or removed
  • Significant semen abnormality where ICSI is the treatment of choice

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 25/03/2026

Next review date: 31/03/2031

Author(s): Dr Samara Khan, Consultant in Gynaecology, GRI.

Version: 2

Approved By: Gynaecology Clinical Governance Group

Document Id: 690