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HSG is an X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It allows you to assess its structure and shape. In addition, it checks the patency of the fallopian tubes and the condition of the uterine mucosa. Thanks to this method, we will find out if there are any changes in our uterus. HSG will detect polyps, tumors, and cervical failure.
HSG examination – indications
Among the indications, in the first place can be found the search for the causes of infertility. HSG is an invasive test. It consists in introducing a specially selected contrast agent into the female genital tract. Then, photos are taken or a video is recorded that accurately shows the appearance of the cervical canal and the fallopian tubes. Any changes can be detected with this method. The most common are tumors.
Additionally, the examination includes the assessment of the patency of the fallopian tubes. The doctor will order the HSG if he suspects that the fallopian tubes are blocked or the cervix is insufficient. Sometimes the reason obstruction of the fallopian tubes there are mucus plugs, adhesions are also common. Obstruction of the fallopian tubes can also occur after infection with sexually transmitted diseases. Few people know that appendicitis can also contribute to obstruction of the fallopian tubes. It may turn out that the condition also occurs after surgery on the fallopian tubes. As you can see – indications for the HSG test can be very different.
HSG examination – preparation
Appropriate preparation is necessary before performing the HSG test. The doctor orders an ultrasound as well as a gynecological examination. Also, cytology and smear of the cervical canal are performed. It is the doctor who always informs the patient about how to prepare for a specific examination. Most often, it informs about the need to eat an easily digestible dinner the day before the examination.
The examination should be started when the patient’s bladder is empty and has a bowel movement. Sometimes it is advisable to take your reliever medication twenty minutes before the test. It should be in a suppository, because only this form will work so quickly. If, during the examination, the specified contrast penetrates very efficiently into the fallopian tubes, it means that they are completely patent. However, if it turns out that the contrast has not flowed freely, it usually indicates some irregularity.
For further diagnosis, the doctor will refer you to hysteroscopy or laparoscopy.
HSG study – opinions
Among the opinions about the HSG study, there is information that the study is painful. Feeling pain is always an individual matter. Some women will not be able to withstand the HSG test, while others will only feel discomfort. All opinions say that the HSG test is not the most pleasant one.
The HSG study uses x-raysso it should not be performed at any point in the cycle. Testing is allowed only in the first half of the cycle. All because if it is performed after ovulation, there is a risk that the woman may be pregnant. This radiation can harm your baby. Usually the test takes no more than 20 minutes. The position is almost identical to that of an ordinary gynecological examination.
| Name of the study | HSC study |
| Introduction – what is this research / what the research is for | This is an X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes. |
| Indications for the examination | Fruitless efforts for a baby, tumors, polyps and other abnormalities. |
| Standards | There are no general standards. |
| Interpreting the results (at least basic) | The doctor interprets the image individually. |
| How is the test going | The examination consists in introducing a contrast agent into the genital tract and taking photos or recording a film showing the inside. |
| How to prepare for the test | Performing other tests, such as cytology, cervical smear. |
| Information to be reported prior to testing | The medications taken and any allergies should be reported. |
| How to behave after the examination | There are no specific rules. |
| Possible complications after the examination | It is possible to feel discomfort during and after the examination. |
| Other important (if any) | x |