The purpose of a hysterosalpingogram or hysterosonogram (fluid contrast ultrasound) is to make sure that the uterine cavity is of normal shape and that the fallopian tubes are open. These exams are carried out either in the Department of Ob/Gyn or the Department of Radiology. For these tests a physician from our department, a resident, and a medical technician will be present. These tests are performed between day 6 and 12 of your cycle, with day 1 being the day you begin your period. Please let us know if your period does not seem to be normal. Neither the ultrasound nor the x-ray can be performed if you are pregnant or have an active pelvic infection. The x-ray cannot be performed if you are allergic to iodine or x-ray dye. A prescription for an antibiotic will be given to you or called into your pharmacy at the time the test is scheduled. This antibiotic will be started the day before the exam and it will be continued for 72 hours. About an hour before the exam you should take ibuprofen, 600 mg (Motrin/Advil) or a similar medication to minimize some mild to moderate cramping you may experience. The entire procedure takes approximately 45 minutes. Some patients are better suited to have this procedure under ultrasound guidance while others will need to have an x-ray in the Department of Radiology. Please clarify with the physician or nurse which test you will need prior to scheduling the procedure. If you need an ultrasound-guided procedure, please schedule a hysterosonogram. If you need an x-ray procedure, please schedule an x-ray hysterosalpingogram. In order to schedule these procedures, please call 720.848.1690. The Patient Care Coordinator will take a message and a nurse will call you back to schedule your test. Please have your pharmacy phone number available if you need the antibiotic and pain killer prescriptions called in.

The procedure, whether done by ultrasound or x-ray guidance, involves the use of a speculum (the same instrument used for Pap smear exams). The speculum is introduced into the vagina and the cervix is visualized. Two instruments (tenaculum and cannula) are then attached to the cervix and the dye or saltwater is injected through the cervix until it fills the uterine cavity and tubes. Several pictures are then taken after which the instruments are removed. Cramping occurs when the uterus is filled with fluid and for about 15 minutes after the procedure.

The risks of the procedure include: (1) allergic reaction to the dye used, (2) developing an infection from the procedure, and (3) damage to the pelvic structures from the instruments used. These complications are rare.

The HYSTEROSONOGRAM (fluid contrast ultrasound) is performed at the Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion Advanced Reproductive Medicine office located at 1635 N. Ursula Street. The office is located on the third floor. Pre-register in the office admissions area 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

The X-RAY HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM is performed at the Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion in the Department of Radiology which is on the first floor. Please pre-register in the office admissions area for the Radiology Department 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

Before leaving for your appointment, please clarify with the nurse whether you need to report to the Department of Ob/Gyn or the Radiology Department for your scheduled procedure.

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