What is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and why should I have one?

What: A Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray examination of a woman’s uterus, fallopian tubes, and the area around them.

Who performs: Usually done by a radiologist, although a radiology technologist or nurse may assist. Your Reproductive Endocrinologist may also be present.

Insurance: Discuss the fees related to your Hysterosalpingogram with your fertility doctors in Kansas City and their insurance coordinators to determine what portions are covered by insurance and what charges you might occur.

How: A thin tube is placed inside the vagina and extended into the uterus. A radio-opaque dye (contrast material) is then injected through the tube. The dye flows into the uterus and through the fallopian tubes, spilling out the other end into the abdominal cavity. Fluoroscopy, a medical x-ray imaging technique, is used to take pictures in real time, displaying the images of the uterus and fallopian tubes on a video monitor.

When: The HSG is performed 2 to 5 days after your menstrual period has ended, and before your next ovulation. This avoids the use of x-rays during a possible early pregnancy.

Why: Your Kansas City fertility doctor may schedule this type of exam. By examining the x-ray pictures, your physician can determine if your uterus and fallopian tubes are normal in size and shape, and if your fallopian tubes are blocked. The HSG can also show if the uterus has abnormalities, adhesions, fibroids, injury, or a foreign object in the uterine cavity. If you have had a tubal ligation reversed, the HSG can be used to determine if it was successful.

Where: It is generally performed in the radiology department of a hospital or clinic or outpatient facility.

Good to Know: You may experience cramping. Your doctor may advise you to take ibuprofen before the procedure. Also, slight bleeding is common, so you will want to bring along a sanitary napkin to wear after the test.

Time: Approximately 15-30 minutes.

Drawbacks: There are slight risks of pelvic infection (1%), allergic reaction to the dye (less than 0.1%), and perforation of the uterus (less than 0.1%). Additional information  about this procedure can be obtained from your Kansas City fertility doctors.

Perks: Several studies show that pregnancy rates in the first few months following a HSG are slightly increased. It has been suggested that the dye flushes out minor blockages or clears debris in the fallopian tubes.