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HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM (HSG)
A hysterosalpingogram is a test to see if the uterine cavity has a normal shape and if the fallopian tubes are open. The Department of Radiology does this testing as part of the team working with Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. A physician from our department, a resident, and a medical technician will be present during the test. The entire procedure takes approximately 45 minutes.
Scheduling the Procedure
- This test is done between day 6 and 12 of your cycle. (The day you being your period is day 1.)
- You need to schedule an x-ray hysterosalpingogram. In order to schedule this procedure, please call 720-848-1690, Option #1, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Patient Care Coordinator will take a message and a staff member will call you back to schedule your test.
- You will need to take an antibiotic prior to having the test. Please have your pharmacy phone number available when making the appointment if you need your prescription called in.
Preparing for the Tests
- Please let us know if your period does not seem to be normal. The test cannot be done if you are pregnant or have an active pelvic infection. Also this x-ray cannot be done if you are allergic to iodine or x-ray dye.
- Start the prescribed antibiotic the day before the exam. You should take the antibiotic twice a day on the day before, the day of, and the day after the x-ray.
- Do not have intercourse for 24 hours prior to the exam if your test is scheduled around the time of ovulation.
- About an hour before the exam take ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), 600 mg, or a similar medication. This helps to decrease some mild to moderate cramping you m ay experience.
The Actual Test
This test is done in the Radiology Department located on the first floor of Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion (1635 N. Ursula Street). Please register in the office area for the Radiology Department 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
The procedure involves the use of a speculum (the same instrument used for Pap smear exams). The speculum helps open the vagina so the cervix can be seen. Two instruments are then attached to the cervix to fill the uterine cavity and tubes with dye. Several pictures are taken and then the instruments are removed. You may need to change positions on the table in order for them to get better views. Cramping occurs while the uterus is full of fluid and for about 15 minutes after the procedure.
Risks
The risks of the procedure include:
- Allergic reaction to the dye used
- Developing an infection from the procedure
- Damage to the pelvic structures from the instruments used.
These complications are rare.
After the Test
- You may have a light discharge and some vaginal spotting or bleeding. Do not worry unless it continues or is heavier than a normal period.
- You may have some mild to moderate cramping for 24 to 72 hours. It is safe to take ibuprofen or a similar medication (Motrin®, Advil®, Nuprin®).
- To decrease the risk of infection from the procedure, avoid douching, tampons, and intercourse for 48 hours. If you feel like you may have a fever, take your temperature. Call the office if it is greater than 101 degrees F. Finish your antibiotic, if prescribed.
- Please schedule an appointment with your physician when all your studies and lab work have been completed. We will then discuss the next step in your management.
FOR EMERGENCIES
If you have any questions or problems, call the physician who performed the test or Advanced Reproductive Medicine at 720-848-1690, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 p.m.
AFTER 4:30 p.m. and on weekends, please call 720-848-1690 and ask for the doctor on call for Reproductive Endocrinology. The answering service will have the doctor return your call. If unable to reach your health-care provider call the Emergency Department at 720-848-9111.
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