Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

DEFINITION: This is an examination performed to assess the patency of the uterine cavity (intrauterine space) and the fallopian tubes. It involves cannulating the uterus transvaginally, injecting a contrast agent into the cavity, and then taking a series of X-rays under fluoroscopic guidance.

APPOINTMENT: The examination is performed between days 5 and 11 of the menstrual cycle (day 1 is the first day of the patient’s menstrual period).

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: None.

PATIENT PREPARATION: None.

CONDITIONS PREVENTING THE EXAMINATION: Any procedure involving barium or iodine-based contrast agents must be performed prior to this examination.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy. Additionally, if the patient’s menstrual bleeding is still ongoing on the 5th day, she should consult her doctor regarding the examination.

CONTRAST: Iodine-based contrast agent (Depending on the clinical preliminary diagnosis, water-soluble or oil-soluble iodine-based contrast agents may be preferred).

AVERAGE PROCEDURE DURATION: 30 min.

TRANSPORT: None.

POST-PROCEDURE INFORMATION: After the procedure, cramp-like abdominal pain and spotting may occur. A pain reliever other than aspirin (e.g., acetaminophen) should be taken, and the patient should rest at home for a few hours. The examination is evaluated and reported by a radiologist. The images and the examination report are provided to the patient together.