Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which is used to assess the structure and shape of the uterine cavity, the patency of the fallopian tubes and the condition of the uterine mucosa. How does HSG work? Does hysterosalpingography hurt?

Histerosalpingographyis an X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which involves taking pictures after administering contrast. Thanks to HSG, the doctor can assess the shape of the uterine cavity, the condition of the endometrium, the patency of the fallopian tubes and their shape, as well as the condition of the appendages. HSG can also detect uterine developmental changes, polyps, uterine underdevelopment, tumors or uterus, cervical insufficiency, obstruction of the fallopian tubes and tuberculosis of the reproductive organ.

Hysterosalpingography: preparation for the examination

  • Before the examination it is necessary to ultrasound the reproductive organ and make a vaginal smear
  • you can have a light supper the day before the examination, and a light breakfast in the morning
  • an enema is required on the morning of the examination
  • 20 minutes before the test you take a diastolic in the suppository
  • the doctor asks for the date of your last period and if you are not allergic to contrast agent

Hysterosalpingography: contraindications

HSG testing can be performed up to the 10th day of the menstrual cycle, but after the bleeding has ended. This test must not be performed if there is even the slightest vaginal bleeding. It is also not done when a woman is pregnant or allergic to the contrast agent.

Hysterosalpingography: the course of the study

The HSG test takes several minutes. May require general anesthesia. The patient, who is in the position as during the gynecological examination, is inserted into the specula and then, with the help of the Schultz apparatus, a contrasting agent is introduced into the uterine cavity. Pictures are taken when the contrast fills the uterine cavity, and another when it fills the fallopian tubes and begins to flow out into the abdominal cavity. The third image can be taken to visualize the contrast in the abdomen and also to visualize the peritubal adhesions. The number of photos taken during the examination depends on the type of disease.

Does hysterosalpingography hurt?

The test is basically painless, but unpleasant. It happens, especially when they occuradhesions obstructing the fallopian tubes, that the patient feels pain when contrast is introduced. If you experience any discomfort, notify your doctor immediately.

Possible complications

There is a negligible risk of adnexitis and peritonitis after the examination.

Worth knowing

Histerosalpingography can restore fertility to some women

This is what scientists from Australia say. It turned out that in the last century, the pregnancy rate among infertile women increased after washing their fallopian tubes with water or oil-based contrast for X-ray examinations. Until now, it was not known whether this type of solution changed fertility. Researchers tested two types of agents - one based on poppy seed oil, called Lipiodol Ultra-Fluid, and water contrast (Telebrix Hystero). It turned out that almost 40 percent. infertile women became pregnant after using an oil solution and 29 percent. after therapy with an aqueous solution. So far, however, it is not known why the method works. For now, scientists speculate that the introduced fluid removes impurities that prevent fertilization.

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Research