Hysterosalpingography

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) evaluates the shape of the uterus and checks whether the fallopian tubes are open. It's also used to investigate miscarriages due to problems in the uterus.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant and discuss any recent illnesses, medical conditions, allergies, and medications you're taking. Do not have this procedure if you think you may be pregnant or have an active pelvic infection. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to iodinated contrast material. Tell your doctor if you have a pelvic infection or an untreated sexually transmitted disease (STD). Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home. You will need to wear a gown, like getting a pelvic exam.

What is Hysterosalpingography?

HSG is an x-ray exam of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It uses a special form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and a contrast material.

An x-ray exam helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. It exposes you to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most often used form of medical imaging.

Your doctor uses fluoroscopy to see your internal organs in motion. Your doctor or technologist will fill your uterus and fallopian tubes with a water-soluble contrast material. Your radiologist will then use fluoroscopy to view and assess them.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

Doctors primarily use this exam to examine why you might be having difficulty becoming pregnant. The doctor looks at the openness of the fallopian tubes, the shape and structure of the uterus, and any scarring within the uterine or nearby peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.

The exam also evaluates the openness of the fallopian tubes and checks the effects of tubal surgery. These effects include:

• Blockage of the fallopian tubes due to infection or scarring
• Tubal ligation
• Closure of the fallopian tubes in a sterilization procedure and a sterilization reversal
• Re-opening of the fallopian tubes following a sterilization or disease-related blockage

The exam can investigate repeated miscarriages resulting from congenital or acquired uterine problems such as:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometrial(uterine) polyps
• Adhesions
• Congenital problems (uterine anomalies)
• Tumors