What is an HSG test??

I have had people ask what this HSG test that I have talked about is. Since my hope in all of this is to educate people I figured it was time to explain this test. I have one coming up in preparation for our IUI procedure.

What is a hysterosalpingogram?

• Radiographic contrast (dye) is injected into the uterine cavity through the vagina and cervix
• The uterine cavity fills with dye and if the fallopian tubes are open, dye fills the tubes and spills into the abdominal cavity

What to expect during a HSG TEST

A hysterosalpingogram, HSG is an important test of female infertility. This test is a radiology procedure usually done in the radiology department of a hospital or outpatient radiology facility.

This shows weather the fallopian tubes are open or blocked and weather a blockage is at the junction of the tube and uterus or at the other end of the tube.

The HSG study only takes about 5 minutes to perform. However, the test is usually done in the radiology department so there is additional time for the woman to register at the facility and fill out a questionnaire and answer questions regarding allergies to medication etc. The results of the test can be immediately available. The x-ray pictures can usually be reviewed with the woman several minutes after the procedure is done.

Does having a dye test improve the chance for getting pregnant?

Pregnancy rates in several studies have been reported to be very slightly increased in the first months following a hysterosalpingogram. This could be to the flushing of the tubes opening a minor blockage or cleaning out some debris that was preventing the couple from conceiving.

Some studies suggest that using oil based contrast provides a slightly larger increase in pregnancy success rates than the use of water based contrast. (I have told my husband it's gonna turn me into a sticky bun lol) However, the large majority of HSGs are done with water based contrast.

Side Effects and Risks

Some pain and/or discomfort, feeling cramps or achy and vaginal spotting and/or watery discharge.

When spotting or discharge occurs, patients are encouraged to use sanitary napkins or pads as opposed to tampons. While uncommon, a risk associated with HSG is infection.