| Basic Information |
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| Definition |
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Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an x-ray examination used to help diagnose
a suspected intrauterine tumor, mass or congenital malformation, or
where the fallopian tubes may be blocked. HSG is often necessary in
cases of infertility to help determine the problems involved. Ultrasound
techniques have been improved so that they can also diagnose some
intrauterine conditions, but not tubal blockage.
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| Reasons For Procedure |
- Infertility.
- Confirm tubal and uterine abnormalities, congenital malformations
and traumatic injuries.
- Multiple miscarriages.
- Excessively painful menstruation.
- Follow-up to some surgical procedures.
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| Risk Increases With |
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Pregnancy.
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| Description of Procedure |
- The procedure may be done in a hospital or in the office of a
radiologist.
- A speculum is inserted into the vagina and the cervix is grasped
with a tenaculum (a hooklike instrument).
- A dye apparatus is attached to the cervix and a dye (contrast
medium) is slowly inserted into the uterus and x-rays are taken.
There may be some discomfort felt as the dye is injected. You may
be asked to change positions for different x-ray views.
- The x-rays will show the outline of the uterus and fallopian
tubes as the dye fills them.
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| Expected Outcome |
- Normal findings reveal a symmetrical uterine cavity, the dye flowing
through unblocked fallopian tubes, and there is no leak. of dye
from the uterus.
- The x-rays may help reveal any abnormality in the shape/size
of the uterine interior scarring, tumors (fibroids) or a blockage
in the fallopian tubes.
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| Possible Complications |
- Allergic reaction to the dye used in the test (hives, itching,
low blood pressure).
- Uterine perforation.
- Infection.
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| Treatment/Post Procedure Care |
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| General Measures |
- Some symptoms, such as mild cramping, a slow pulse, some nausea
or dizziness may occur following the procedure. These are temporary.
- Conditions detected by the hysterosalpingogram require further
testing for confirmation; usually a laparoscopy or hysteroscopy
(use of a small lighted telescope to view internal organs).
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| Medication |
- A mild sedative may be administered prior to the procedure.
- Following the procedure, use mild painkillers, such as acetaminophen
if necessary.
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| Activity |
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No restrictions once any temporary symptoms disappear.
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| Diet |
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No restrictions
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| Notify Your Healthcare Provider If |
Any of the following occurs:
- Increased pain or swelling in the genital area.
- Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general
ill feeling and fever.
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