What is a Hysterosalpingogram?
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is used for evaluation of infertility. During the procedure, radiographic contrast is injected into the uterine cavity through the vagina and cervix. . The uterine cavity and the fallopian tubes are filled with contrast, and in a normal study the contrast spills into the abdominal cavity, confirming their patency. If the fallopian tubes are blocked, the site of blockage is determined.
How do I prepare for the exam?
Women should be in their sixth to tenth day of their menstrual cycle. At the time of the study, you will change into a hospital gown. You will be asked to remove jewelry or objects that may interfere with the procedure.
What can I expect during the examination?
You will be asked to lie on the table on your back and bring your feet up into a "frog leg" position. The doctor places a speculum in the vagina and visualizes and cannulates the cervix. Contrast is slowly injected into the uterine cavity under real time fluoroscopy. The patients often feel uterine cramps.
What are aftercare instructions?
Patients may have mild vaginal spotting after the study. You may resume normal activity at the conclusion of the procedure.
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The radiology information resource for patients. RadiologyInfo.org tells you how various X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, radiation therapy and other procedures are performed. It also addresses what you may experience and how to prepare for the exams. The website contains over 200 procedure, exam and disease descriptions covering diagnostic and interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy and radiation safety and is updated frequently with new information. All material on the RadiologyInfo.org website is reviewed and approved by experts in the field of radiology from the ACR and RSNA, as well as other professional radiology organizations.