Hysterosalpingogram

What is a hysterosalpingogram?

A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an X-ray procedure used to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes. Dye is injected through the cervix and into the uterus and tubes so that these organs can be seen on an X-ray.

When is it used?

This procedure is usually done to try to find the cause of:

• trouble getting pregnant
• heavy bleeding
• painful menstrual periods
• missed menstrual periods
• abnormally shaped uterus

It may also be done to:

• look for a lost IUD
• check for an incompetent cervix (inability of the cervix to stay closed during pregnancy).
• check for tumors in the uterus
• check for scar tissue in the uterus

The test is done right after a menstrual period has ended to be sure that it is not done while you are pregnant.

An alternative to this procedure may be having procedures that use a scope put through tiny cuts in your belly (laparoscopy) or a scope put into the vagina and uterus (hysteroscopy) to look into the uterus.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

• Eat a light meal such as soup or salad the night before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything the morning before the procedure.
• Your healthcare provider may ask you to take a laxative the night before the procedure.
• Urinate just before the test.
• Tell your provider if you have had an allergic reaction to contrast dye or seafood.
• An hour or two before the procedure your provider may give you a suppository or enema to clear your bowels. You may also be given a pain medicine and a drug to relax your muscles. Sometimes you may need to take antibiotics before the test.

What happens during the procedure?

Before putting dye into your uterus and fallopian tubes, your healthcare provider takes an X-ray of your belly. Then you lie on your back on an exam table and put the heels of your feet in stirrup heel holders, just as you would for a pelvic exam. Your healthcare provider puts a speculum into the vagina. The speculum holds open the walls of the vagina so your provider can see the cervix (the opening of the uterus). He or she then cleans the cervix. Next your provider puts a thin tube into your vagina and then into the cervix and injects dye into the uterus and fallopian tubes through the tube while X-rays are taken.

You might have cramps during the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

Someone should drive you home after the procedure.

You may feel a little nauseous or dizzy and have some cramps for 1 or 2 days. You may also have some bloody vaginal discharge. Your healthcare provider may give you a mild pain medicine to take home with you.

Ask your healthcare provider what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure may help your provider see if you have a problem in the uterus or fallopian tubes. It may help your provider treat the problem.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• The inside of your belly may be irritated, causing cramps or a fever.
• In rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the dye. You should ask your healthcare provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your provider right away if:

• You have a fever over 100.5°F (38°C).
• You have an allergic reaction to the dye. The symptoms of an allergic reaction are:
  • swelling of the skin
  • hives
  • itching
  • nausea
  • fainting
  • shortness of breath

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.