Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Dye Test With X Rays
HSG Test Diagnoses Blocked Tubes and Other Infertility Causes
Nov 3, 2009
An HSG is done by a doctor or radiologist; contrast dye is injected through the cervix into the uterus. The dye then passes through the Fallopian tubes and flows out of the tubes into the pelvic cavity, if the tubes are open with no tubal blockage. The dye's progress is followed by a series of X-rays. Because so much valuable information is gained from HSG tests, they’re one of the first tests done when women are having trouble getting pregnant.
Having an HSG for Infertility ; What to Expect Before and After the Dye Test
The HSG should be scheduled during the first half of the menstrual cycle, generally no later than day 12, so as not to damage a potential early pregnancy from the dye or the X-rays. Many doctors require testing for sexually transmitted diseases before the test, so as not to cause infection from pushing dye up into the uterus through the vagina and cervix. Some doctors also prescribe antibiotics to take several days before the procedure to help prevent infection, which occurs in 1-3% of women having an HSG.
An allergy to either shellfish or contrast dye could mean not being able to have the test, so make sure to let the doctor know about these allergies beforehand. An HSG can be somewhat uncomfortable, with moderate cramping during and after the procedure. HSG testing is not done under sedation, although many doctors recommend taking an anti-inflammatory such as Advil or Motrin an hour or so before the HSG test.
A small amount of bleeding and cramping is normal after the test, along with some leakage of the dye, which will be clear colored. Bring someone along for the test so they can drive home.
HSG Finds Blocked Tubes, Fibroids, and Uterine Polyps That Cause Infertility
Among the problems that might be found on HSG in the uterus are fibroids and polyps. Both are quite common. Polyps are small fleshy growths that can prevent an embryo from implanting and cause bleeding during the menstrual cycle. They’re easily removed by hysteroscopy.
Fibroids can be small or quite large, and can cause infertility, especially if they’re found at the top, or fundus, of the uterus. Small fibroids can be removed through hysteroscopy; larger ones may require an abdominal procedure called a myomectomy to remove them. Doctors differ on which method of removal is best. HSG might also diagnose a uterine septum, which is a piece of tissue dividing the uterus.
Blocked fallopian tubes can be caused by endometriosis, scar tissue or previous infection. Infections cause the tube to become dilated and swollen; this is known as hydrosalpinx. Any type of tubal blockage prevents embryos from reaching the uterus. If a blockage is small, sometimes just doing the HSG and forcing the dye through will open them up.
HSG Can Help Women Get Pregnant
Hysterosalpinograms are valuable tools for women with fertility issues. They’re easy to do, require minimal recovery time, and help doctors find causes of infertility that can be treated, so women can get pregnant.
Source
Griffiths AN, D'Angelo A, Amso NN. Surgical treatment of fibroids for subfertility. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003857. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003857.pub2.
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