Hysterosalpingography, or HSG, is an X-ray imaging procedure that is used to diagnose problems with the uterus as well as blocked fallopian tubes. HSG is also commonly performed to assess repeated cases of miscarriage which may have resulted from abnormalities in the shape of the uterus.
The procedure makes use of a particular form of X-ray called fluoroscopy, which enables your doctor to have a look at the movement of your internal organs.
Your uterus and fallopian tubes are first filled with a water-soluble contrast material, after which your doctor uses fluoroscopy to make a thorough evaluation of these organs.
HSGs are commonly performed by doctors for diagnosing infertility.
During the procedure, your doctor will check for any irregularities in the structure and shape of your uterus, whether your fallopian tubes are blocked, and if your uterine or abdominal cavity has any scarring present.
An HSG also assesses the effects of tubal surgery, which include:
The procedure is also performed to examine repeated cases of miscarriage which may have resulted from hereditary or acquired uterine conditions, including:
Average Cost
$494
Price Range
$201-787
How hysterosalpingography is performed is quite similar to that of a vaginal examination. You may experience some cramping that is somewhat comparable to period pains during or after the procedure. This may be due to blocked fallopian tubes, or the contrast material leaking out into your abdominal cavity.
However, the pain experienced is typically not very intense and usually requires no medication. This, of course, varies on a case by case basis and depends on an individual’s pain tolerance and other underlying conditions.
It is recommended that you:
Is this procedure painful or uncomfortable?
Mild cramping may be experienced during the procedure for about 5 to 10 minutes, which can last up to several hours afterward. To counter this, medications that treat menstrual cramps can be taken prior to the test or whenever necessary. It is recommended to have a friend or family member drive you home post-HSG in case you experience some cramping.
What will the results from the HSG test tell me?
A radiologist will assess the X-ray images after your test and deliver the findings to your doctor. Results from the HSG can help your doctor to assess:
In some cases, surgery can be performed to treat uterine irregularities.
What happens next if my fallopian tubes are blocked?
If the results from the test show that your fallopian tubes are blocked, your doctor will have a thorough discussion with you and may recommend surgical laparoscopy to enable a proper view of the tubes, or to perform IVF as a means to circumvent the issue and induce conception.