Women's Imaging
Hysterosalpingogram
A hysterosalpingogram or "HSG" is a radiology test using dye or
contrast material as well as x-rays in order to evaluate the uterus
and fallopian tubes. This test is most commonly used in women who
are experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant.
How is it performed:
A thin soft tube is passed into the vagina and secured in the
cervix. The contrast material can then be slowly injected through
this tube into the uterus and fallopian tubes while highly targeted
x-rays beams, which limit total body radiation exposure, take
images.
Why is it performed:
HSG's can confirm normal female anatomy or can identify
potential blockages that may be preventing sperm from fertilizing
an egg. An HSG can also detect uterine conditions that may be
preventing a fertilized egg from attaching or implanting
successfully to the uterine wall. On occasion, an HSG can even push
through a blockage, reopening the normal channel, and thereby
correcting the infertility problem.
How do I prepare:
Ideally, the test should be done 2 to 5 days after your
menstrual period has ended to be sure you are not pregnant. You may
want to bring a sanitary napkin as there is leakage from the
contrast dye, as well as a chance of some slight bleeding over the
next 24 hours following the procedure. Sanitary napkins will be
provided in the department.
First, you will need to tell your doctor if:
- You might be pregnant
- You are allergic to iodine dye or any medications, have
experienced any serious allergic reactions, or have asthma
- You are taking any blood thinning medication or have bleeding
problems
- You have a history of kidney problems or diabetes, especially
if you are taking Metformin to control your diabetes. The dye used
during this test can rarely cause kidney damage in people with
underlying poor kidney function. If you have kidney problems, blood
tests may be done to check that your kidneys are working well
enough to receive the dye safely.
What you should expect:
This test usually takes about 15 minutes to perform. It is
similar to a pelvic exam at a gynecologist's office. You will be
asked to lie on a table on your back with your feet up in a "frog
leg" position. The doctor will place a speculum in the vagina in
order to view the cervix, and then place a thin catheter in the
cervical opening. The contrast will be slowly inserted through the
catheter as X-rays are being taken. The images will be printed
immediately following the procedure for you to take to your next
doctor's appointment.
