What is a hysterosalpingogram ( HSG )?

A hysterosalpingogram is an X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes which allows visualization of the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes via the water-soluble contrast media. The pictures will determine whether the fallopian tubes are open and will see if the shape of the uterine cavity is normal. An HSG is an outpatient procedure that takes less than one half-hour to perform.

Time to receive the HSG

HSG is usually done after menses have ended, but before ovulation, it is to prevent interference with an early pregnancy.

What Should Have Been Paid Attention to Before the HSG?

1. First, please complete the letter of consent to this examination and simultaneously carry   the application to the counter of the Radiology Department on the third floor of Li-Fu Medical Building.
2. Please change your clothes for examination, and then wait for the gynecologist to start HSG.
3. Before this examination, please empty your bladder.

How is the HSG done?

1. You will be positioned under a fluoroscope (a real-time x-ray imager) on a table. The position is like what you had at GYN outpatient clinic.
2. The gynecologist then places a speculum in the vagina and examines your uterine size and direction by a probe.
3. The cervix will be cleaned, and a device ( cannula ) will be placed into the opening of the cervix.
4. The gynecologist then gently fills the uterus with liquid containing iodine ( water-soluble contrast ) through the cannula.
5. The contrast enters the tubes, outlines the length of the tubes, and spills out their ends if they are open. The radiologist takes the pictures with the fluoroscope, and abnormalities in the uterine cavity or fallopian tubes will be visible.
6. During the process of the HSG, you maybe feel fullness of lower abdomen. It is a usual phenomenon. Thus, don’t be too nervous.

• If you have any discomfort, you can tell us immediately.

Points for attention after this examination

1. At the end of this examination, the obstetrician will put some gauze in the examinee's vagina.
2. If any anti-inflammation medicine was prescribed in the obstetric out-patient department, please keep use of it after the examination.
3. If there's any discomfort persisting after the examination, an immediate visit to our hospital is suggested.