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Your uterine conditions have to be favourable for pregnancy, which means no polyps, fibroids, scar tissues, or abnormal shapes. When you have clear fallopian tubes, fertilisation is easy, allowing conception. The HSG test checks your uterine anatomy and the blockages in the fallopian tubes.
This simple procedure evaluates your infertility so that you can get the required treatment.
What is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)?
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a special X-ray of your reproductive anatomy to identify specific causes of infertility. It checks your uterus shape and cavity for any abnormalities and patency in your fallopian tubes.To get the X-ray, your doctor injects a special dye of contrast material and watches it as it flows into your uterus and fallopian tubes. The dye fills up the shape of your uterus and also checks for blockages in the fallopian tubes.
This type of X-ray is called fluoroscopy because the flowing dye produces a video image rather than a still image.
Why Do You Need an HSG in Fertility Evaluation?
An HSG test provides insight into the essential factors affecting your pregnancy or miscarriage.- Blockages in fallopian tubes: The blockages are common if you suffer from pelvic infections, endometriosis, or other traumas. The dye flows out of the other end of the tube in case of no blockages. A blocked tube can prevent your egg from fertilisation, leading to infertility. Fallopian tube blockages can occur near the uterus (proximal) or farther away from it (distal). Your doctor may suggest a suitable treatment based on the type of blockage.
- Health of the uterus: An HSG test provides the shape and size of your uterus. A heart-shaped uterus makes it difficult to get pregnant. The presence of polyps, fibroids, or adhesions in your uterus can result in multiple miscarriages. The test also evaluates your uterine conditions to ensure it can sustain pregnancy.
- Treatments: If you are considering IVF, an HSG test is helpful to determine any abnormalities or blockages, which will lead to a successful IVF procedure. The test is also useful for examining uterine and tubal conditions before tubal surgery or removal of fibroids.
- Planning Future pregnancies: A detailed analysis of your reproductive health rules out conditions or helps in getting treatment before you plan your pregnancy.
Preparing For an HSG Test
You may experience pain or slight discomfort during your HSG test, so you may be prescribed pain relief medications. Taking this medicine an hour before the procedure is ideal for it to work. You may also be given an antibiotic to avoid infections.The best time for an HSG test is the first week after your period. At this time, there are lower chances of you being pregnant. This test is not suitable when you are pregnant, have infections, or have vaginal bleeding.
Also, the procedure uses a contrast medium such as dye, which is either oil-based or water-based. Your body usually absorbs this dye, and it has no harmful side effects. If you have allergies to the dye material, discuss it with your doctor in advance.
How is an HSG performed?
In an HSG test, a contrast medium is released into your uterus and fallopian tubes, which outlines their anatomy on the screen.You can expect the following process for your HSG test.
- It is a simple procedure in which you have to lie on the table, similar to a pelvic exam.
- You may be given local anaesthesia to numb your pelvic region.
- A device may be used to keep your cervix open and steady before injecting the dye. In another method, a thin tube is used to inject the dye.
- You are moved below the X-ray machine after removing the speculum.
- The dye is released, putting pressure on your tubes when they are blocked.
- Your doctor reviews the image to identify uterine conditions or blockages.
- When your tubes are open, the dye spills out from the other end, which your body absorbs.
Is the HSG Test Painful?
You may experience pain or discomfort similar to the cramps during your menstrual cycle. The discomfort during the test is mainly due to the dye. Strong pain is usually not common, so the pain reliever is enough.What to expect after HSG?
A common scenario after the HSG test is experiencing pain and vaginal discharge. You may also feel light-headed or nauseated, but it eventually goes away.However, consult your doctor immediately if you have a fever, intense cramping, fainting, or vomiting.
Are there any risks with an HSG?
HSG test has no major risks, you may get minimal radiation exposure during an X-ray. Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions to the dyes, infections or inflammations after the test.Does an HSG Test Improve Your Chances of Conceiving?
During the HSG test, the dye removes the minor blockages in your fallopian tubes. The blockages may prevent pregnancy, so after they are clear, your chances of conceiving increase. The pregnancy rates are higher when you select the oil-based contrast medium.Depending on your situation, you can expect to get pregnant within the first three to six months after the test.
An HSG test is very helpful in understanding the root causes of your infertility. The primary role of this test is to ensure clear fallopian tubes and favourable uterine conditions to help you sustain a pregnancy. The procedure also helps with suggesting treatment plans after surgeries or checking how you are healing. You can expect to get pregnant normally after the procedure without complications.
FAQ on What is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and Why it's Done in Fertility Evaluations
- What is a hysterosalpingogram for fertility?
A hysterosalpingogram is an X-ray to assess your uterus and fallopian tubes. It can detect any problems in them that may prevent pregnancy. - Why does the HSG test increase fertility?
The chances of pregnancy increase after the HSG test because it uses dye, which removes minor blockages in your tube. - Why is HSG done before IVF?
The HSG is performed before IVF to get a detailed view of your uterus and fallopian tubes. Any specific issues can be treated before proceeding with the IVF.
