How to prepare for the HSG

How to Prepare for the HSG Test
If you've been trying to conceive for more than a year without success (or six months if you're over 35), one of the first diagnostic tests a fertility specialist will recommend is a hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

What is an HSG?
The Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray procedure that is used to view the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Blockage of one or both fallopian tubes causes about 35% of cases of infertility in women. Partial or complete blockage of a tube can prevent a fertilized egg from moving into the uterus.

At IVF FLORIDA, we perform an HSG for four primary reasons:

-To see if a woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked.
-To assess if the inside of the uterus is of normal shape and size
-To check for scarring or abnormalities of the fallopian tubes
-To diagnose problems in the uterus and fallopian tubes, such as an injury, polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or a foreign object in the uterus.

An HSG can also be used after some sterilization procedures (such as Essure) to make sure that the fallopian tubes have been completely blocked.

What to Expect:
The HSG procedure is completed in a few simple steps:

Step 1: Before your procedure, your physician will prescribe you an antibiotic to take in the days leading up to the procedure. One hour before the procedure, take Motrin or Tylenol to help with any cramping during the procedure.

Step 2: Radiologic dye is injected into the uterine cavity. The dye then moves through the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Step 3: If there is no blockage, the dye will move through the fallopian tubes and spill out into the abdominal cavity. If there is a blockage, the dye will stop, showing where the blockage is located.

After the HSG
While many patients experience no pain after the HSG procedure, some women undergoing the test will often experience light cramping but will be able to resume normal activities immediately after.

What Makes IVF FLORIDA’s HSG Different?

Time: Our HSGs can be performed in as little as 15 minutes.

Cost: Since we perform our HSGs on site, they are less expensive than those performed at a hospital.

Convenience: Just check in, take a pregnancy test, and have the procedure all in one place.

Comfort: IVF FLORIDA's HSGs are performed through a procedure that lessens the discomfort that may be experienced through the use of other techniques.

How To Schedule Your HSG With IVF FLORIDA

The best time to get an HSG done is in the first half (days 5-10) of the menstrual cycle, so we suggest that you call us on the first day of your period. This timing reduces the chance that you may be pregnant. If your appointment falls on a day that your menstrual flow is still heavy, call to reschedule. Light spotting will not affect the outcome of the procedure.

Prior to your HSG procedure, your physician may prescribe an antibiotic. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Motrin or Tylenol can be taken one hour prior to your procedure to help relieve pain or discomfort. Consult your doctor or nursing team if you have any questions. 

The Results
If you are an established patient of IVF FLORIDA, your physician will discuss the results of your HSG and review the images with you at the end of your exam. Based on the results, further tests may be needed and recommendations will be given to you at that time.

If you are not an established patient of IVF FLORIDA, you will need to contact the doctor who ordered your HSG, so they can review the test results with you.

For more information about the HSG or to schedule an appointment, please call 954-247-6200.