A hysterosalpingogram can help our team diagnose blocked tubes and other issues
After you provide your medical history and undergo bloodwork, what’s the next step? Often, our Las Vegas fertility doctors will schedule women for a hysterosalpingogram, or HSG. This simple test can provide valuable information about your uterus and fallopian tubes. Learn what to expect when you visit The Fertility Center of Las Vegas (FCLV) for this test.
What information does an HSG provide?
Blocked fallopian tubes and uterine abnormalities are common and treatable infertility causes. Before beginning treatment for these issues, our Las Vegas fertility doctors need to diagnose them. This is where a hysterosalpingogram can help.
An HSG is an X-ray test that can reveal information about the shape of your uterus and help your doctor determine whether your fallopian tubes have a blockage.
- An abnormal uterine shape can interfere with embryo implantation and pregnancy.
- A tubal blockage can prevent the sperm and egg from meeting for fertilization or keep the fertilized egg from traveling to the uterus.
If our team detects either or both issues, they can recommend highly effective treatments to bypass them. One common option is in vitro fertilization (IVF).
What happens during a hysterosalpingogram?
Please call us when you start your period so that our team can schedule your test between Day 7 and 10 of your menstrual cycle. You should avoid sexual intercourse for the 48-hour period before the procedure.
On the day of this outpatient test, you will lie on an exam table and place your feet into the stirrups. From there, the HSG will involve the following steps.
- After inserting a thin tube (catheter) through the vagina and cervix, a special iodine-containing dye, or contrast material, will be injected into your uterus.
- A radiologist will take X-ray images as the dye flows into your uterus and fallopian tubes. The dye will usually appear dark or black on the X-ray, which will allow the radiologist to see any abnormalities in the uterus’ shape.
- If the fallopian tubes are open, the dye will slowly fill them and eventually spill back into the pelvic cavity. There, the body will reabsorb it. If the tubes are blocked, the dye will not flow out of them.
You might experience some cramping and discomfort due to the procedure. As a result, you may want to take Aleve or Ibuprofen before the test. Our Las Vegas fertility doctors also recommend having someone drive you home after the procedure.
You can expect to have discharge after an HSG, as the dye leaves your body. For this reason, it’s wise to wear a pad or panty liner during this time.
What are the next steps after an HSG?
Approximately three business days after your procedure, our office will receive your results. You will then schedule a visit with your doctor to discuss the findings and treatment recommendations.
If you have more questions about what to expect from a hysterosalpingogram, contact us. Our team is happy to walk you through all the steps.
