A Lipiodol HSG is often requested in the treatment of infertility. Like a hysterosalpingogram, it uses xrays to show a fluid medium (Lipiodol) in the uterus and fallopian tubes. Lipiodol has shown in research that in some cases, increases the chances of successful pregnancy implantation.
Your preparation requirements
We recommend that you have your tubal patency confirmed (not blocked) within 12 months of having a Lipiodol HSG.
A Lipiodol 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. 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 have diabetes, 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 (the same as a PAP smear) 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 that should settle.
The Lipiodol is then introduced and watched in ‘real time’ on a TV monitor. Several xray pictures are taken and the balloon is left in place for 3 minutes. The Radiologist will then deflate the balloon and remove the catheter. We will keep you lying down for a little while following the procedure.
Due to the fluid 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 24 – 72 hours after your HSG then you must contact your doctor immediately or present to an emergency department
FAQs
Can my GP refer me for this procedure or do I have to come from a fertility specialist?
Yes, a GP can refer for a Lipiodol HSG, there is no difference in cost. As mentioned above, it is important that you have baseline imaging prior to proceeding with the Lipiodol HSG.
Is it covered by Medicare?
Part of the procedure is covered by Medicare, however the Lipiodol is not and will incur an out of pocket expense. This can be quoted at the time of booking.
What is Lipiodol?
Lipiodol is a clear fluid made out of idiosed poppyseed oil that has been used in many applications since the 1970s. There have been studies to show that it may increase the chance of pregnancy in some women.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or consult your referring practitioner.
If you are having a Lipiodol HSG, please see our checklists below.
