Hysterosalpingography (HSG) looks at the fallopian tubes’ patency and the uterus’s form. Investigating miscarriages brought on by uterine issues is another use for it. A contrast-dyed X-ray test called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is used to identify issues related to infertility. The fallopian tubes and uterus are filled with a specific dye during the HSG, and X-rays are used to take pictures of them. Your doctor can use HSG to find problems in your reproductive system that might keep you from getting pregnant. These issues include an irregularly shaped uterus and obstructed fallopian tubes. A

hysterosalpingography: what is it?

A hysterosalpingogram is a type of X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes that helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. You will be exposed to a small dose of ionizing radiation. X-rays are the oldest and most common form of medical imaging. The radiologist uses fluoroscopy to observe and evaluate your internal organs in motion after filling the uterus and fallopian tubes with a water-soluble contrast agent.

 The procedure is performed during the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, after the last menstrual period but before ovulation, which lowers the risk of pregnancy or menstruation during the procedure.

For whom is a hysterosalpingogram not appropriate?

 You shouldn’t have an HSG if you have a pelvic infection or are pregnant. Several typical uses for the hysterosalpingography technique This test is mainly used by doctors to look into your fertility problems. The uterus’s form and structure, the fallopian tubes’ patency, and any scarring in the uterus or the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity close to it are all examined by the physician.

The fallopian tubes’ patency is also checked during this examination. It can also assess the results of operations, surgeries, and other scarring-causing disorders. Among these effects are:

Obstruction of the fallopian tubes as a result of scarring or infection

 Shutting down the pipes

 Fallopian tube reopening after sterilization or obstruction due to illness

Additionally, this test can look at recurrent losses brought on by inherited or acquired uterine issues such the following:

 Fibroid uterine uterine endometrial polyp. Adhesions Congenital issues, such as uterine abnormalities Her cancers

How a hysterosalpingography is performed To reduce any discomfort

it could be advised to take over-the-counter painkillers (such acetaminophen) before to the surgery. Antibiotics may be prescribed by some physicians either before to or following the procedure. All of your drugs should be disclosed to your doctor. Any allergies, particularly to iodine contrast materials, should be disclosed to them. Talk to your doctor about any recent illnesses or other health issues.

The HSG procedure, which takes less than fifteen minutes and allows you to go home the same day, involves filling the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes with a colored dye that creates an outline of your uterus and fallopian tubes that is highlighted in the X-ray image. If the dye is flowing through your fallopian tubes, they are open; if it encounters an obstruction that prevents flow, your fallopian tubes are blocked. You must remove any metal objects that might interfere with the X-ray images.

The discharge is frequently sticky and has trace quantities of blood in it. Additionally, you could experience adverse effects like: obstruction. Lightheadedness. Nausea or discomfort in the stomach. Perhaps minor vaginal bleeding for a day or two.

Does having a hysterosalpingogram hurt?

It is typical to have little pain or discomfort during and after the surgery. You can experience cramping as the healthcare provider inserts the dye solution into your uterus. You can have more cramps if your tubes are obstructed. After the treatment, this cramping could continue anywhere from five minutes to many hours. It could feel moderate or mild. The cramping in your muscles can be lessened by taking over-the-counter pain medications.

What are a hysterosalpingogram’s advantages and disadvantages?

Benefits It is a minimally invasive test. Problems are uncommon. Additionally, it can offer important details on loss or pregnancy difficulties. You may be able to conceive in the future if it opens your obstructed fallopian tubes.

 There is no radiation left in your body following an X-ray examination. X-rays often don’t cause any adverse effects that fall within the typical diagnostic range for this test. Tell the technician and doctor whether you have an inflammatory condition, a sexually transmitted infection, or an untreated pelvic infection.

This will assist you in keeping such an infection from getting worse. You should always let the technician and doctor know if you are pregnant.

What are hysterosalpingography’s drawbacks?

This test just examines the fallopian tubes and the inside of the uterus. The ovaries, uterine wall, and other pelvic structures may be examined by the physician using an MRI or ultrasound. The incapacity of a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus or low or aberrant sperm counts cannot be used to assess infertility issues.

Does the likelihood of getting pregnant rise after a hysterosalpingogram?

Although the quality of these research varies, some indicate that tubal flushing increases fertility, particularly in the first three to six months following the dye injection. Before HSG can be regarded as both a diagnostic process and a treatment for infertility, more study is required.

Although further research is needed to support this notion, the dye solution may be able to remove tiny obstructions and improve your chances of becoming pregnant.