The Essure Confirmation Test takes place three months after your Essure procedure to give your body time to form a natural barrier around the Essure micro-inserts. In rare cases, it can take longer than three months—up to six months at times—for the Essure micro-inserts to completely block the fallopian tubes. During this time, it is important that you continue to use another form of birth control, other than an IUD or IUS, to prevent pregnancy.

To prepare for your Essure Confirmation Test, talk to your doctor about whether you should take antibiotics or any pain medications before the test. You should also let your doctor know if you are allergic to shellfish, iodine, or contrast fluid.

While the Essure Confirmation Test is a type of HSG (hysterosalpingogram), it is different from the HSG used to diagnose and treat infertility—and is considerably more comfortable. In fact, most patients return to normal activities right after the test, confident of Essure’s success.

Here’s what to expect:

• Just like your annual exam, you will be asked to lie on a table. A speculum will be inserted into your vagina to gently expand the opening.

• Then a thin tube will be passed through the cervix into the uterus. A small amount of dye will flow through the tube to the opening of the fallopian tubes.

• The radiologist will position the x-ray over your abdomen to verify that the micro-inserts are in the correct location and that fluid cannot flow past them —ensuring your fallopian tubes are completely blocked.

For a few hours, you may feel some cramping similar to a normal menstrual period, which can usually berelieved with over-the-counter medication. You may also have a thick discharge as the dye is released from your uterus. Use pads, not tampons, until the flow has stopped. After your Essure Confirmation Test,your physician can provide further guidance and answer any questions you may have.

Your doctor will discuss the results of your Essure Confirmation Test with you as soon as they are available - sometimes even on the day of your test.  In rare cases, it can take longer than three months - up to six months at times - for the Essure micro-inserts to completely block the fallopian tubes.  Until you receive confirmation directly from you doctor, you must continue using another form of birth control.

There are few risks associated with the Essure Confirmation Test and adverse reactions are rare.  You should be aware that, because you will be receiving an x-ray, you will be exposed to very low levels of radiation, as is the standard with most x-rays.  Some rare but potential side effects of the Essure Confirmation Test include infection, spotting, and allergic reaction to the dye.

Please call your doctor if you experience:

• Severe or increasing pelvic pain
• Heavy vaginal bleeding (requiring more than a pad for one or two hours)
• Unusual vaginal discharge or odor