What is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)?
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) evaluates the shape of the uterus and checks whether the fallopian tubes are open. It’s also used to investigate miscarriages due to problems in the uterus.
- An HSG is performed in the event a female has unexplained infertility.
- This procedure will determine if the fallopian tubes are properly open, and are allowing eggs to pass through during a normal menstrual cycle.
Are there any contraindications?
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, have allergies or are taking medications. Do not have this procedure if you think you may be pregnant or have an active pelvic infection. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to iodinated contrast material. Tell your doctor if you have a pelvic infection or an untreated sexually transmitted disease (STD).
How do I prepare for an HSG exam?
Before the procedure, you may take over-the-counter medication to minimize any discomfort. You will need to remove some clothing and wear a gown for the exam. Remove any metal objects or clothing in the pelvis that might interfere with the x-ray images.
- Spotting is ok on the day of exam. However, regular bleeding will result in the exam being postponed as bleeding may result in an infection or make the fallopian tubes look blocked even if they aren’t.
- Or regular cycles, call on day 1. Appointment will be scheduled on day 5-11
- If you have an irregular cycle, no intercourse 2 weeks prior to exam and a STAT blood pregnancy test will be ordered by your doctor 24-48 hours prior to exam. Please bring results with you to your appointment.
What will happen during the exam?
The procedure is like a gynecological exam. You will lie on your back on the exam table with your knees bent, or your feet will be held up with stirrups. A Radiologist will insert a speculum s into your vagina, clean the cervix and insert a catheter. The doctor will remove the speculum and carefully position you underneath the fluoroscopy camera. The doctor will fill the uterine cavity, fallopian tubes and peritoneal cavity with contrast material through the catheter and capture the fluoroscopic images. The doctor may ask you to shift position underneath the fluoroscopy camera.
When the procedure is complete, the doctor will remove the catheter and allow you to sit up.
When the examination is complete, you may be asked to wait until the radiologist determines that all the necessary images have been obtained.
The exam usually takes about 30 minutes.
What can I expect after the exam?
This exam should cause only minor discomfort. You may have some slight discomfort and cramping when the doctor places the catheter and injects the contrast material. This should not last long. Most women experience vaginal spotting for a few days after the exam. This is normal.
