Hysterosalpingography(HSG) is a technique that provides information about the internal structures of the uterus and fallopian tubes, used to diagnose infertility. It’s an X-ray test that allows physicians to look at the shape of the uterine cavity and confirm if it is normal or not. It is used to diagnose infertility in women. It can also investigate pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, tubal disease, and structural problems with the uterus. The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis under sedation. It is also possible to do a laparoscopy simultaneously so that physicians can investigate other issues such as endometriosis or pelvic adhesions. Hysterosalpingography is used when all other infertility treatments have failed, and for this reason, this diagnostic test can be done by an experienced physician specializing in HSG in Celebration.
What Does It Show?
Although it can be challenging to interpret the test results, detailed images of the uterine cavity that an HSG creates can identify problems, such as;
- Thickened lining (endometrial polyps)
- Fluid in the uterus (endometrial edema)
- Abnormal tissue growth on the surface of the uterus (endometrial hyperplasia)
- Any areas where the uterine cavity is absent (a “Blind” uterus)
The contrast material will provide information concerning the blockage of the fallopian tubes. Transvaginal sonography or laparoscopy should be performed to evaluate another potential tubal disease.
How to Prepare
Your physician will give you specific instructions before your procedure. Generally, it is best to avoid taking aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications for five days before the test. You can take showers up to 3 days before the test. You must tell your physician about all of your medications, especially oral contraceptives. It’s also a good idea to have your bladder emptied before the procedure.
What Is The Procedure?
The test is done in an outpatient facility and takes about 20 minutes. You will be given a shot that relaxes you. In some cases, it may take up to 12 hours for complete relaxation, which is why the patient spends the night in the facility. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is passed through the cervix into the uterus, and then contrast material is injected into your uterus. The mixture flows through your fallopian tubes to fill it up, thus creating images used for interpretation by the physician under X-ray controls. Patients will need to lie flat on the X-ray table for about 30 minutes following the procedure.
What Should I Expect After The Procedure?
Immediately after the test, you may be asked to wait at the facility or clinic so your uterus can return to its standard size. You should drink lots of water and try to relax as much as possible. It’s also recommended that you avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.
In summary, HSG is a medical procedure used to get more information about the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes to diagnose infertility. It can show fluid in the uterus, endometrial polyps, and endometrial hyperplasia. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. The procedure takes about 20 minutes to complete.