Tubal Evaluation Specialist

When you’re having difficulties becoming pregnant, a tubal evaluation may be your first step to learning more about your fertility issues. At Gago Center for Fertility, located in Brighton, Ann Arbor, and Lansing, Michigan, Laura April Gago, MD, offers in-office tubal evaluation procedures. This critical first step in fertility evaluation can get you started on your journey to addressing the issues that make it difficult to conceive. Schedule a tubal evaluation today online or by calling the office nearest you.

What is a tubal evaluation?

A variety of issues affecting your fallopian tubes can result in infertility. To determine if fallopian tube dysfunction is the root cause of your difficulties getting pregnant, Dr. Gago performs a tubal evaluation to get a closer look at the fallopian tube structures.

The fallopian tubes are reproductive organs on both sides of your upper uterus. They contain finger-like structures that trap a released egg during ovulation and assists with the fertilization process between sperm and egg.

About five days after this process, the fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube and into the uterus, where it implants into the uterine lining, or endometrium.

How is a tubal evaluation performed?

Dr. Gago will perform a Sonohysterogram (SIS) for uterine tubal evaluation, usually on days 6-12 of the menstrual cycle or while on a contraceptive pill, as it cannot be preformed during menstruation or if you may be pregnant. This procedure is used to determine if there are any abnormalities of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Abnormalities such as polyps, fibroids, adhesions, and congenital anomalies may be detected.

Prior to the procedure an ultrasound is performed to evaluate the uterus and ovaries. A speculum is placed in the vagina, just as for a routine gynecologic exam. Your cervix is washed off with a cleansing preparation prior to inserting a small catheter through the cervical opening. Once the catheter is in place, a tiny balloon is inflated inside of the uterus and fluid is injected and the uterine cavity distends for viewing. Dr. Gago inserts the vaginal ultrasound probe and evaluates the uterine lining for polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or uterine anomalies. She then injects a small amount of air into the uterus so that she can evaluate the fallopian tubes and see if they are open. Both the patient and her partner can watch on the monitor as the exam is performed.

What can I expect after a tubal evaluation?

You may experience cramping which will rapidly resolve as the liquid flows back from the uterus. There are no limitations on diet or activity prior to or following the procedure. Should you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, foul smelling discharge, or fevers following the procedure, please call our office. If it is after hours or a weekend please call the answering service.

Dr. Gago reviews the results of your test and may recommend further treatment if she detects any issues in the fallopian tubes that affect your fertility. If fallopian tube dysfunction isn’t the cause of your fertility, Dr. Gago moves forward with other testing options to make a diagnosis.

Find out if a tubal evaluation is right for you by calling the office nearest you or using the online booking feature to schedule a consultation today.