SIS
Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS)
A clear picture of your uterine cavity — guiding your path to the right treatment.
What is Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS)?
Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS), also known as sonohysterography or saline sonogram, is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure in which sterile saline is gently infused into the uterine cavity while a transvaginal ultrasound is performed. The saline distends the cavity, providing a clear view of the uterine lining and interior, allowing detection of structural abnormalities such as polyps, submucosal fibroids, adhesions (Asherman\u2019s syndrome), and uterine septum that may be contributing to infertility or recurrent miscarriage. SIS is a key diagnostic tool in the fertility workup at Ova IVF.
Who is this for?
- Women with unexplained infertility undergoing fertility workup
- Women with recurrent implantation failure after IVF
- Women with recurrent miscarriage
- Women with abnormal uterine bleeding
- Women with suspected uterine polyps, fibroids, or adhesions
- Women prior to IVF or IUI to confirm a normal uterine cavity
Key Benefits
Step-by-Step Procedure
A clear, transparent walkthrough of every stage of your SIS treatment at Ova IVF.
Scheduling & Preparation
SIS is ideally performed in the early follicular phase (Days 5–10 of the menstrual cycle) when the endometrium is thin, providing the clearest view. You will be asked to take a mild analgesic (e.g. ibuprofen) 30–60 minutes before the procedure.
Positioning & Initial Scan
You lie in the gynaecological position. A baseline transvaginal ultrasound is performed to assess the uterus, ovaries, and endometrium before saline infusion.
Speculum Insertion & Cervical Cleaning
A speculum is inserted and the cervix is cleaned with antiseptic solution. A thin, flexible catheter is gently passed through the cervical canal into the uterine cavity.
Saline Infusion
Sterile saline (10–20 mL) is slowly infused through the catheter into the uterine cavity. The saline distends the cavity, separating the uterine walls and creating an acoustic window for ultrasound imaging.
Ultrasound Imaging
As saline fills the cavity, the transvaginal ultrasound probe provides real-time images of the uterine lining and interior. The entire cavity is systematically evaluated for polyps, fibroids, adhesions, septum, or other abnormalities.
Procedure Completion
The catheter is removed. The procedure takes 10–15 minutes in total. Mild cramping during and after saline infusion is normal and usually resolves within 30–60 minutes.
Results & Treatment Planning
Findings are discussed immediately after the procedure. If an abnormality is detected (e.g. polyp or fibroid), hysteroscopic surgery may be recommended before proceeding with fertility treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SIS the same as an HSG?
No. HSG (hysterosalpingography) is an X-ray procedure using contrast dye that also evaluates tubal patency. SIS uses saline and ultrasound to evaluate the uterine cavity only. SIS provides better detail of intrauterine abnormalities, while HSG additionally assesses the fallopian tubes.
Is SIS painful?
Most women experience mild to moderate uterine cramping during saline infusion, similar to period pain. Taking an analgesic beforehand significantly reduces discomfort. The procedure is well-tolerated by most patients.
What happens if an abnormality is found?
If a polyp, fibroid, adhesion, or septum is identified, hysteroscopic surgery is usually recommended to correct the abnormality before proceeding with fertility treatment, as these can significantly impair implantation.
Ready to Begin Your SIS Journey?
Our specialists are here to guide you. Call us or book a consultation today.