Hysterosalpingogram- Fertility Test to Evaluate the Fallopian Tubes and Uterus
The hysterosalpingogram (HSG) fertility test is a dye study using x-rays to help outline the interior of the uterus and fallopian tubes. The HSG provides information about the possibility of abnormalities within these structures. HSG findings might include polyps, fibroids, congenital abnormalities, scar tissue in the uterus, obstruction of the tubes, or other abnormalities.
The HSG is performed in the MJH Radiology Department on the first floor of the MJH Outpatient Care Center by either Dr. Bateman, Dr. Williams, or Dr. Smith and takes about fifteen minutes.
The HSG fertility test begins with a speculum exam that allows the doctor to cleanse the cervix with an antiseptic solution (Betadine) and place a balloon catheter on the cervix. This procedure may cause mild cramping. The speculum is removed and a radiopaque dye is gently instilled through the catheter into the uterus. The progress of the dye is monitored on a video monitor as it travels through the uterus and the tubes and several x-ray pictures are taken.
A few patients may experience some cramping during the HSG. To reduce this, it may be helpful to take 600 mg of Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil or Nuprin) an hour prior to the HSG.
It is common to have some spotting after the HSG and this should not be a cause for concern and should clear up within a few hours. Mild cramps may also be experienced.
If the discomfort worsens or a fever develops, call the office.
Call the doctor's office at (434) 654-8520 when menses begins. This fertility test is done between cycle days 7 and 11 (after menses cease and before ovulation).
On the day of the HSG, report to the Radiology Department in the MJH Outpatient Care Center.
Rarely, what seems to be a normal menstrual period is actually bleeding in early pregnancy. We require that a home pregnancy test be performed prior to the HSG. If the result is positive, alert one of the physicians and cancel the HSG. If a home pregnancy test is not performed, the patient is assuming the small risk that she may actually be pregnant and the fetus could be damaged by the HSG.
If menstrual bleeding is occurring on the day of this fertility test, the HSG cannot be done and must be rescheduled. A known allergy to x-ray contrast media or iodine may prevent us from performing the HSG. Please let the doctor know about this prior to the HSG.
There is a risk of uterine and/or tubal infection after an HSG. This may be a new infection caused by the procedure or a flare-up of an old infection. If there is a history of pelvic infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to be taken prior to the procedure. However, nothing will totally eliminate this risk. In our experience, this risk is extremely low - less than 1%.
