This procedure is performed in the department of radiology in a hospital based setting. Your physician will meet you at the time of your test so they may assist the radiologist in completing the procedure.
The HSG, hysterosalpingogram, is a procedure used to evaluate whether a patient has had a history of fallopian tube disease and if either fallopian tube is patent or open. The HSG is usually performed in patients undergoing an infertility work-up and have not been able to conceive, or as confirmation of tubal occlusion after a family planning procedure.
After a speculum is placed in the vagina an antiseptic solution is used to sterilize the cervix and surrounding area. An instrument may be placed on the cervix to stabilize it and straighten it. A small catheter is then passed through the cervix into the uterus/womb. Radio-opaque dye is then instilled while the radiologist completes the x-rays.
Depending on your history, patients are advised to take a pain medication, ibuprofen, one hour prior to the procedure. Some patients may require vaginal and cervical cultures prior to the procedure, as well as a negative pregnancy test.