Hysterosalpingogram

A HSG is an xray procedure performed to determine whether the fallopian tubes are open and to see if the shape of uterine cavity is normal. This is an outpatient procedure.

How it is done?

Patient is positioned under fluoroscope (x-ray imager) on a table. Radiologist examins her uterus and places a speculum in vagina. Slight discomfort occurs in this procedure. The cervix is cleaned and cannula is placed into opening of cervix. Then the iodine is passed through the cannula. It passes outline the length of tubes and spills out their end if they are open. This can be visible on a monitor. it is done on 8th-10th day of mensus

Is it comfortable?

An HSG usually causes mild to moderate pain for 5 minutes. Some people experience to several hours. It will reduce slowly. Only trained technician and 
good private hospitals can bring comfort zone for the patients.

Fainting: Rarely, patients get light headed during the procedure.

Spotting: Spotting commonly occurs for one or two days after HSG.

Prescription:

An injection is given to patient an hour before the procedure which relaxes the muscles during the diagnostic procedure.

Chances of pregnancy: 10% of Women can naturally conceive after this diagnostic procedure as it clean up the tubes.

Antibiotics are given before the procedure.

Please consult your doctor for more details.

The possible options are

If one tube is patent, the doctor may plan for a couple of IUI cycles if ovulation occurs in the ovary which is not block

If both tubes are blocked, the doctor may suggest IVF as an option.

If there are structural anomalies in the tubes, uterus, etc, other corrective procedures may be suggested.

My experience:

I did thrice for the natural fertility treatment to detect my tubes are normal. It was a horrible experience as I did not aware about the procedure. I thought it is like basal ultrasound scan. I got severe pain and bleeding after the procedure. But last two times I never experience such pain as the procedure is done by trained technician and in private hospital. Overall this procedure brings fear in each woman who is in fertility treatment.