Your Guide to Pelvic Ultrasound and Sonohysterogram Fertility Tests Before Surrogacy

When starting your surrogacy journey with Adonis Fertility International, one of the first steps is making sure your reproductive system is ready to create healthy embryos. Two key tests are typically required: a pelvic ultrasound and a sonohysterogram (SIS). While these names might sound intimidating, don't worry – we will break down exactly what happens during these important pre-surrogacy screenings.

Why These Tests Matter for Your Surrogacy Journey

Before creating embryos that will eventually be transferred to your surrogate, your medical team needs to ensure your uterus and ovaries are in optimal condition for the egg retrieval process. Think of these tests as a pre-flight check – they help identify any potential issues that could affect embryo creation and give your fertility team the information they need to personalize your treatment protocol.

The Pelvic Ultrasound: Your First Assessment

First up is the pelvic ultrasound, which gives your fertility team a good look at your ovaries and uterus. Here's what happens: you'll need to arrive with a full bladder (yes, it's uncomfortable but necessary for clear images). The exam takes about 30 minutes and happens in two parts.

They'll start with an over-the-belly ultrasound using that infamous cold gel. After that (and the sweet relief of emptying your bladder), they'll do a transvaginal ultrasound. This involves a slim probe with more explicit pictures than the external one. It's less uncomfortable than your annual Pap smear and provides crucial information about your ovarian reserve and any potential obstacles to egg retrieval.

The Sonohysterogram: A Closer Look

The sonohysterogram (SIS for short) gives your Adonis Fertility team detailed information about your uterine cavity – essential data they need before starting your fertility medications. Timing matters here – it must be scheduled right after your period ends, usually between days 6-10 of your cycle.

During the procedure, you'll lie back like you do for a regular exam while your doctor inserts a tiny catheter through your cervix. They'll slowly add a bit of saline solution while doing an ultrasound. The whole thing takes about 15-30 minutes and provides valuable information about your reproductive system before beginning the surrogacy process.

Here's what you should know:

• Expect some cramping during the SIS – think period cramps, not labor pains

• Spotting afterward is normal, so bring a pad

• While you can drive yourself home, having someone with you is nice

• Most women return to normal activities immediately, but it's okay to take it easy

Recovery and Next Steps

These tests are typically just the beginning of your surrogacy journey with Adonis Fertility International. Your results will help guide the following steps, whether moving straight to medication protocols or addressing any issues that might need attention first.

Watch out for any red flags, such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or unusual discharge—if you notice these, contact your medical team immediately.

Looking Ahead

While these procedures might not be the most enjoyable part of your surrogacy journey, they're crucial first steps toward creating your future family. They're quick, relatively painless, and provide essential information that will help make your journey as smooth as possible.

Remember, every test brings you one step closer to your goal. The Adonis Fertility team is here to support you every step of the way, so feel free to ask questions about anything you need clarification on.

Tips:

• Ask your doctor about taking ibuprofen before the SIS

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Block out a few hours for the appointments, even though they're relatively quick

• Keep your Adonis Fertility coordinator's contact information handy in case you have questions afterward

Your surrogacy journey is a path to parenthood that requires some extra steps, but you've got this – and you've got a whole team behind you ready to help make your dreams of family come true.