The Basics Of The Hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

 

When you go to a fertility doctor or clinic, they will more than likely begin by doing some basic diagnostic blood work and testing. One of the first tests typically performed is a Hysterosalpingogram or HSG. While you have to wait for results from other tests, the HSG is one the few fertility testing procedures that provides you with instant results. In this post I am going to tell you the basics of Hysterosalpingogram (HSG), and the benefits of this test in your fertility journey.

First of all, What is Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)?

The Hysterosalpingogram is simply a test that is used to determine if there are any blockages in either of your fallopian tubes and it will also show if there are any uterus abnormalities or fibroids.

Where is the Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) done?

The HSG is usually done at a local hospital’s surgical/surgery center, although many fertility clinics have the necessary equipment to perform the test right in the clinic as it is a fairly common fertility test.

Here are the steps for a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):

• The HSG is a quick procedure that typically takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
• During the procedure, you will be on your back on a table with your legs raised in a gynecologic position.
• The doctor will inject contrast die through your cervix into the uterus while simultaneously taking an images of the pelvic area.
• The contrast die will spread through your uterus and tubes and will show if there are any abnormalities or blockages in the tubes or any uterine malformations.
• In many cases, you will be able to watch the die spreading on a TV in the room and some doctors explain what is happening and what he saw as the die spread.

See the image below.

What to expect during the procedure?

• Your doctor or clinic will probably advice you that during the HSG you “might” feel a “slight discomfort”. Generally speaking the discomfort or pain associated with the procedure is different for every woman, it depends mainly if there are blockages or no within the fallopian tubes.
• Most doctors will prescribe medication such as Tylenol for you to take before the procedure.
• You might experience slight uterine cramping for a few hours after the procedure and this is completely normal.
• You should also wear a panty liner for a few days as some of the die might come back out of your cervix.

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Benefits of a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) in your fertility journey.

The results of the HSG are very important in helping to determine your next steps or procedures in the fertility process. A normal HSG that shows no blockages or abnormalities rules out blocked tubes as a possible cause for your fertility problems and your doctor will begin further testing. If the HSG shows a blockage in one or both of your fallopian tubes, your doctor will discuss your alternatives with you.

This boils down to two choices: you attempt to unblock the tubes through laparoscopic surgery which will increase your probability of pregnancy, or your can choose to not have the surgery, keeping the blockages in place and decreasing the probability of pregnancy. Whether or not to have the surgery is obviously a personal decision and you need to take the time to decide what is right for you.

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What comes next after having the results?

A blocked tube carries some risks and complications. First of all, when one or both of your tubes are blocked, you are at an increased risk for having an ectopic or tubal pregnancy. This is a very serious condition, especially if the tube ruptures.

The second complication involved in a blocked tube is that most doctors will not do an IUI or IVF procedure when a tube is blocked as it will decrease your chances of a successful procedure and can actually work against it. For instance, when you do an IUI with a blocked tube and the sperm is injected directly into the uterus, the chances of the sperm and egg meeting are slim to none since the tube is blocked and the egg and sperm can’t get through it to meet. If you do an IVF with a blocked fallopian tube, the blocked tube can cause fluid to back up into the uterus which impedes the embryo from implanting in the uterus.

If you decide to have surgery to unblock the tubes. Your doctor will likely schedule a second HSG once you have healed from the surgery. They do this to make sure that the tube is open and that the die passes through the way it should. This second HSG will help determine what your next step will be.

Preparations before a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

• Take someone with you to the procedure.
• If your doctor offers you any pain medication before the procedure, take it. You never know what your pain or discomfort experience is going to be like with the HSG, so it is best to be prepared for anything.

Related posts that might be helpful to you:

Causes Of Infertility and solutions.

All you need to know about ovulation.

Ovaries, hormonal cycles and common cysts.

Final thoughts about Hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

The great take away about this topic is that, Hysterosalpingogram is one of the most important procedure during the fertility process. And one of the most important procedures you can have during your fertility journey as it can give you instant results and instant answers as to what can be preventing you from getting pregnant. Although, is slightly uncomfortable, it is over quickly and you are able to walk away from the HSG knowing what your next step will be.

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Zadi, xo

Disclaimer: The medical information on this post is for educational and entertainment use only. Under no circumstances, this information is to replace your doctor’s advice or to treat any disease. For proper care, always visit your doctor.