Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

What is hysterosalpingography?

Hysterosalpingography is an x-ray procedure used to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes. Contrast dye is injected through the cervix and into the uterus so that these organs can be seen on an x-ray.

When is it used?

This procedure is usually done to discover the cause of:

• infertility (checks if the fallopian tubes are blocked)
• heavy bleeding
• painful menstrual periods
• amenorrhea (missed menstrual periods).

It may also be done to:

• look for a lost IUD
• check for tumors in the uterus.

An alternative to this procedure may be:

• having a laparoscopy with dye.

How do I prepare for hysterosalpingography?

• Eat a light meal such as soup or salad the night before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything the morning before the procedure.
• Take a laxative the night before the procedure.
• Urinate just before the test.
• Tell your health care provider if you have had an allergic reaction to contrast dye or seafood.
• An hour or two before the procedure your provider may give you a suppository or enema. You may also be given a pain medicine and a drug to relax your muscles. Sometimes it may be necessary for you to take antibiotics before the test.

What happens during the procedure?

The test is done right after a menstrual period has ended to be sure that it is not done while you are pregnant.

Before injecting dye into your uterus and fallopian tubes, your provider takes an x-ray of your abdomen. Then you lie on an exam table and put your feet in stirrups, just as you would for a pelvic exam. The provider opens up the vagina using a tool called a speculum and cleans the cervix (the opening of the uterus). He or she puts a slender tube into your vagina and then into the cervix and injects dye into the uterus and fallopian tubes while x-rays are taken.

You may have crampy pain during the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

Someone should drive you home after the procedure. You may feel nauseated or dizzy and have some cramps for 1 or 2 days. You may also have some bloody vaginal discharge. Your health care provider may give you a mild pain medicine to take home with you.

Ask your provider what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure will not cure the problem, but it may help your provider discover if you have any problems in the uterus or fallopian tubes and how to treat the problem.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• Your abdominal cavity may be irritated, causing cramps or a fever.
• In rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the dye. The symptoms of an allergic reaction are:
  • swelling of the skin
  • hives
  • itching
  • nausea
  • fainting
  • shortness of breath.

You should ask your health care provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call immediately if:

• You develop a fever over 100°F (37.8°C).
• You have an allergic reaction to the dye.

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.