Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a medical procedure used to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes in females. It is a type of X-ray imaging that involves the use of a contrast dye to visualize the reproductive organs. The procedure is typically performed to assess the fallopian tubes’ patency (whether they are open or blocked) and to evaluate the uterine cavity.
Here’s how the HSG procedure is generally conducted:
Preparation: The patient is required to schedule the procedure during the first half of the menstrual cycle, typically between days 7 to 10 after the onset of menstruation. This timing helps to avoid the possibility of interference with an early pregnancy.
Contrast Injection: The patient lies on an X-ray table, and a speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix. A contrast dye is then introduced through a thin tube (catheter) into the cervix and guided into the uterus.
X-ray Imaging: As the contrast dye fills the uterus and flows through the fallopian tubes, X-ray images are taken in real-time. The dye allows the radiologist to observe the shape and size of the uterus and detect any abnormalities, such as uterine polyps, fibroids, or congenital malformations.
Evaluation of Fallopian Tubes: The movement of the contrast dye through the fallopian tubes is observed. If both tubes are open, the dye will spill into the abdominal cavity. If one or both tubes are blocked, the dye will be prevented from passing through, indicating potential tubal issues.
Post-Procedure: After the HSG is completed, the catheter is removed, and the patient may experience mild cramping or discomfort. Some patients may also notice spotting or light bleeding, which usually resolves within a day or two.
Hysterosalpingography is commonly used to investigate the cause of female infertility, especially if there are concerns about tubal blockages or abnormalities in the uterine cavity. It is a safe and relatively quick procedure that provides valuable information to guide fertility treatment or further diagnostic evaluations. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, and patients should discuss the procedure’s benefits and risks with their healthcare provider before undergoing HSG.
