Know About HSG Procedure: Process, Advantages, and Risks

Know About HSG Procedure: Process, Advantages, and Risks

Do you ever wonder what’s happening inside your body affecting your ability to conceive? For many, this question leads to a crucial step in the process of regaining fertility: the HSG procedure. Knowing how your reproductive system works is both enlightening and empowering. 

The right knowledge helps you take control of your path to parenthood. Let’s explore the hysterosalpingography test, its benefits, and what you can expect.

Must Read: Enhancing Success Rates with MicroTESE Procedures

How do you prepare for the HSG procedure?

• Procedure timing: Schedule your HSG after your period but before ovulation, usually between days 5 to 10 of your cycle. This helps to ensure you’re not pregnant during the test.
• Pain management: Your doctor may suggest taking a pain reliever like ibuprofen an hour before to ease any discomfort or cramps.
• Allergen listing: Discuss with your doctor any allergies, especially to iodine or contrast dyes, which are used in the procedure.
• Consent form: You’ll need to sign a consent form that explains the procedure and any potential risks.
  
• Comfortable clothing: Wear comfy clothes and consider bringing socks; you might need to change into a hospital gown.
• Personal stuff: Bring a sanitary pad because there might be some leakage of dye or slight bleeding afterwards.
  
• Support and comfort: Arrange for someone to come with you for emotional support. Doing so also helps in getting to and from the appointment and offers immense emotional relief.

How is HSG performed?

The hysterosalpingogram procedure is relatively simpler and usually takes 30 minutes. It is performed in a radiology or fertility clinic setting. Here’s what you can expect during the HSG:

• Preparation: You lie down on an examination table, much like a regular gynecological exam. The doctor inserts a speculum into your vagina to keep it open.
• Catheter insertion: The doctor cleans your cervix and then inserts a thin tube (catheter) through the cervix into the uterus. This might cause some discomfort, but it’s usually quick.
• Contrast dye injection: The doctor slowly injects the contrast dye through the catheter. This dye outlines the shape of your uterus and fallopian tubes on X-ray images, allowing the doctor to identify any blockages or abnormalities.
• X-ray imaging: As the dye flows through your reproductive tract, the doctor takes X-ray images. You might need to change positions slightly to get clear images from different angles.
• Completion: After taking the images, the doctor removes the speculum and catheter. You’ll be given a sanitary pad to manage any leakage of the dye.

To have a safe and precise procedure, you must choose a highly experienced gynecologist. Usually, it takes about 30 minutes to complete the procedure. Contact Ferticity IVF for detailed information.

How painful is the HSG test?

The level of discomfort during an HSG varies from person to person. Some women report feeling mild to moderate cramping similar to menstrual cramps, while others experience only minimal discomfort. 

Inserting catheters and spectrum can cause temporary discomfort. The injection of the contrast dye may cause cramping or a sensation of fullness, but this typically subsides quickly.

Taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen before the procedure helps manage discomfort. Practising deep breathing and relaxation techniques during the test is also beneficial.

Advantages of HSG test

The hysterosalpingography test has many benefits for women dealing with infertility, including these:

Diagnostic clarity: HSG provides clear images of your uterus and fallopian tubes, helping diagnose structural abnormalities, blockages, or scarring that could impact your fertility.

Treatment planning: The detailed images from the HSG guide doctors in creating effective treatment plans. Identifying issues such as blocked fallopian tubes allows doctors to determine whether you need surgical intervention or other fertility treatments.

Non-invasive process: Compared to other diagnostic procedures, HSG is relatively non-invasive and quick. You won’t need incisions or a lengthy recovery period.

Faster results: You usually receive the results of the HSG immediately after the procedure. This quick turnaround allows for prompt discussion and planning of the next steps in your fertility journey.

Increased Fertility: Some studies suggest that flushing out the fallopian tubes with contrast dye during HSG can temporarily increase fertility in certain women, potentially enhancing your chances of natural conception.

Some potential risks of HSG procedure 

The hysterosalpingography (HSG) procedure is generally safe and an important step in evaluating fertility. However, it’s good to be aware of some potential risks. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Mild discomfort

You might feel some mild discomfort or cramping during and after the HSG. It usually feels like menstrual cramps and subsides within a few hours.

2. Allergic reactions

The dye used in the procedure can sometimes result in allergic reactions. This can range from mild itching to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing. Make sure to tell your doctor already if you have any allergies.

3. Infection

There’s a small chance of getting an infection after a hysterosalpingography. Watch out for symptoms like mild fever, unusual discharge, or severe pain, and contact your doctor if you notice anything unusual.

4. Spotting or light bleeding

Light bleeding or spotting can happen after the procedure. This is usually not a concern and should stop after a few days. If it doesn’t, or if the bleeding is heavy, see your doctor.

5. Damage to the uterus or fallopian tubes

In very rare cases, the procedure might cause damage to the uterus or fallopian tubes, especially if there are existing blockages or abnormalities.

6. Radiation exposure

The amount of radiation used in an HSG is very low, but it’s still something to consider, particularly if you have concerns about exposure to radiation.

Understanding these potential risks can help you feel more prepared. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have to ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable.

The hysterosalpingography (HSG) test is used to diagnose and address fertility issues. This quick and generally safe procedure gives clear imaging of the uterus and fallopian tubes, aiding in effective treatment planning. While there are some risks, they are rare and manageable. If you want to improve fertility, understanding the HSG test is necessary. For expert care and guidance, contact Ferticity IVF today. Book your appointment at https://ferticity.com/contact/