Aquascan / Saline Scan
Early pregnancy ultrasound scan from 6 to 16 weeks.
What is an Aquascan?
An Aquascan is a simple ultrasound procedure used to visualise the endometrial cavity (the inside part of the uterus) and the endometrium (the lining of the endometrial cavity).
What is an Aquascan?
This type of scan is used to:
Assess for abnormalities within the endometrium, such as a polyp. You may have a pelvic ultrasound that suggests the endometrium is thicker than normal or has a different appearance. The Aquascan will help confirm or exclude the presence of an endometrial polyp or submucous fibroid.
Assessing the shape of the endometrial cavity. The Aquascan assesses the contour of the endometrial cavity, detecting conditions such as a uterine septum or bicornuate uterus (these are types of congenital uterine anomalies). This information may be helpful when investigating problems such as recurrent miscarriages or infertility.
How do I Prepare for an Aquascan?
It is important that you are not pregnant when you have this test, as the procedure can disturb the implantation of the embryo. If there is a possibility that you are pregnant, the procedure will need to be postponed until your next menstrual cycle.
The best time to perform an Aquascan is just after your period has finished, approximately day 7 to day 10 of a regular 28-day (monthly) menstrual cycle (the first day of your period is counted as day 1).
If your menstrual cycle is shorter than 28 days (for example, you usually only have 21 days between periods), you will need to have the test earlier in the cycle.
If your menstrual cycle is longer than 28 days, but still regular (for example, you usually have 35 days between periods), you may be able to have the test later in the cycle if that is more convenient.
If your periods are infrequent or irregular, please discuss the optimal time for this test with your clinician.
Will I need Pain Relief?
The level of pain experienced is usually minimal, with most women experiencing either no pain or only mild cramping period-type discomfort during the test.
We suggest that you take 2 Paracetamol tablets 30 minutes before the procedure, to minimise your discomfort. No anaesthetic is required for this procedure.
Do I need a full bladder for this test?
You do not need a full bladder for this test. We will ask you to completely empty your bladder before the test begins.
You can eat and drink normally before and after the test.
How Is an Aquascan Perfromed?
The first part of the Aquascan is like the first part of a cervical smear, with a vaginal speculum gently inserted into the vagina to visualise the cervix. The cervix is then cleansed with antiseptic solution, to decrease the risk of infection. A thin flexible catheter is inserted through the opening of the cervix, so that the catheter lies within the endometrial cavity. Inserting this intrauterine catheter may cause mild discomfort. The vaginal speculum is then removed, with the catheter remaining inside. Next, the transvaginal ultrasound (internal scan through the vagina) is used to image the uterus.
A small amount of sterile saline (approximately 10ml) is introduced into the endometrial cavity through the catheter. The saline distends the endometrial cavity, allowing better assessment of the contour and shape of the endometrium.
The transvaginal ultrasound and catheter are removed at the end of the test.
What are the risks of an Aquascan?
An Aquascan is a safe and well-tolerated procedure for the assessment of the endometrial cavity.
Infection of the uterus/pelvis is not common following this procedure, but it may rarely occur. We recommend taking a two day course of antibiotics following this procedure.
You should contact either your referring doctor or Cherish-UK immediately if you have the following symptoms:
· Persistent or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
· Increasing lower abdominal pain
· Unexplained fever
· Generally unwell
· Such symptoms may indicate an infection.
If you have a history of pelvic infection please inform Cherish-UK at the time of booking, as longer course of antibiotics may be required.
What should I do after the procedure?
You should wear a sanitary pad after the procedure. There may be some persistent vaginal discharge for a few hours, as the fluid used in the test will leak out the vagina. This discharge is sometimes blood stained so do not be alarmed if this occurs.
What should I do after the procedure?
Most women do not find the test too uncomfortable. Some women experience mild cramping period-type pain during the test, but this usually subsides once the test is completed. You should be able to drive and resume normal daily activities after the test.
You can eat and drink normally after the procedure.
During your scan we will explain the findings to you and following your scan we will give you your images and email the report to you. We will email the report to your chosen clinic and if requested we will email your images to your clinic.
Service Pricing:
Monday - Saturday: £400.00 | Not available on a Sunday.
What Our Clients Say
