Fallopian Tube Catheterization (Recanalization)

Getting ready for your procedure

• The procedure is done a short time after your menstrual period ends. This helps make sure you are not pregnant. If you can't recall the date of your last period, you may be asked to reschedule.

• You may be given antibiotics to take before and after the procedure. Take them as directed to lower the risk for infection.

• You may be given pain medicine to take before your procedure. Take it as directed.

• Ask a responsible adult family member or friend to give you a ride home after your procedure. You won't be able to drive.

• Follow any other instructions your provider gives you to get ready.

During your procedure

Your healthcare provider will go over the procedure with you. In general, here's what you can expect:

• You will lie on your back on an X-ray table.

• An IV (intravenous) line may be put into a vein in your arm or hand. This line gives you medicines (anesthesia) to help relax you and keep you from feeling pain.

• A small metal or plastic tube (speculum) is put into your vagina to hold it open.

• A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is put through your cervix into your uterus.

• X-ray dye (contrast medium) is put into the catheter. It flows up into your fallopian tubes. The dye helps your provider see your tubes more clearly on the X-ray images. This test is called a hysterosalpingogram. It will show any blockage that may be in your fallopian tube. It helps guide the rest of the procedure.

• The catheter is moved into your fallopian tube.

• Fluid is injected through the catheter into the fallopian tube. This helps to clear the blockage. The catheter may have a small balloon or wire on the end. The balloon can be inflated to help clear the blockage. The wire can also be passed to help clear the blockage.

After your procedure

• Some cramping and mild bleeding is common for 3 to 5 days.

• Don’t put anything into your vagina for 48 hours after your procedure. Don't use tampons or have sex during that time.

Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these:

• Severe pain or cramps 

• Bleeding other than mild spotting

• Vaginal discharge 

• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C), or as directed

Schedule a check-up visit with your healthcare provider, or as directed.

Risks and possible complications

All procedures have some risk. Possible risks of fallopian tube catheterization are:

• Small hole (perforation) in a fallopian tube

• Pelvic infection

• Problems from the X-ray dye, such as an allergic reaction or kidney damage

• Tubal pregnancy when a fertilized egg stays and grows in a fallopian tube

• Radiation exposure to your reproductive organs, but the risk from this is low

• Fallopian tubes that get blocked again, which may call for another procedure