Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

A HSG is often requested in the investigation of infertility. It uses x-rays and a contrast (‘dye’) to highlight the uterine cavity shape and the patency of the fallopian tubes checking for blockages.

Your preparation requirements

A HSG is performed between day 7-10 of your menstrual cycle. Please ring on the first day of your period to arrange your HSG booking. This is to ensure that the procedure does not interfere with an early pregnancy and thus you will also need to perform a urine pregnancy test on the day of your HSG to ensure that you aren’t pregnant. We ask that you come well hydrated and not go to the toilet as a pregnancy test will need to be performed prior to your study.  Some pelvic cramping can be experienced and a mild analgesia (eg Nurofen, Paracetamol) can be taken prior to your procedure.

Please notify your doctor and the staff at Sound Radiology if you are a diabetic, have renal disease, any allergies or you think you could be pregnant.

What to expect

You will be required to change into a patient gown for this procedure.

Our Radiologist will insert a speculum into the vagina and place a very small catheter into the uterus. This is held in place by inflating a little balloon to stabilize its position. This may cause some lower abdominal cramping like symptoms that should settle. The dye is introduced and watched in ‘real time’ on a TV monitor. Several xray pictures are taken and then the Radiologist will deflate the balloon and remove the catheter.

Due to the dye being introduced into the uterus, some blood stained fluid loss can normally be experienced.

Please allow 30-45 minutes for your examination.

After your procedure

The following points should be considered following your HSG procedure:

• Blood stained fluid loss can be experienced for 24 hours after your procedure (avoid using tampons)
• Some lower abdominal cramping can be experienced and a mild analgesia (eg Nurofen, Paracetamol) can be taken either prior to, or after your procedure
• If severe cramping, pain or fever present within 48 – 72 hours after your HSG then you must contact your doctor immediately or present to an emergency department

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or consult your referring practitioner.