Hysterosalpingography, or HSG, is an X-Ray test to diagram the inner state of the uterus and show whether the fallopian tubes are impeded. In HSG, a dainty cylinder is strung through the vagina and cervix. A substance known as differentiation material is infused into the uterus.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) determines the shape of the uterus and if the fallopian tubes are blocked. It is also used to look into miscarriages caused by uterine issues.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant and mention any recent illnesses, medical conditions, allergies, or drugs you are taking. If you suspect you are pregnant or have an active pelvic infection, you should avoid the procedure. If you are allergic to iodinated contrast material, inform your doctor. If you have a pelvic infection or an untreated sexually transmitted disease (STD), notify your doctor. Wear comfy clothing and leave your jewelry at home. 

What is Hysterosalpingography?

HSG is an X-ray test that examines the fallopian tube and the uterine. It makes use of fluoroscopy, a type of x-ray, and a contrast substance.

An X-ray exam assists doctors in diagnosing and treating medical issues. It uses ionizing radiation to create images of the inside of the body.

Fluoroscopy allows your doctor to see the movement of your interior organs. Your doctor will inject a water-soluble contrast substance into your uterus and fallopian tubes. Your radiologist will then view and evaluate them using fluoroscopy.

How much does the HSG test cost?

An HSG test might cost between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 6,000 in India. The cost varies according to the diagnostic center, gynecologist, and city. The usual cost is between Rs. 2,500 and Rs. 4,000.

How is the procedure carried out?

Your doctor will most likely do this test as an outpatient procedure.

The procedure is similar to that of a gynecological exam. On the exam table, you will lie on your back with your knees bent or your feet supported by stirrups. Your doctor will place a speculum into your vagina, clean the cervix, and insert a catheter. The doctor will remove the speculum and carefully situate you beneath the fluoroscopy camera. The doctor will use a catheter to inject contrast material into the uterine cavity, fallopian tubes, and peritoneal cavity before taking fluoroscopic images. The doctor may ask you to change positions beneath the fluoroscopy camera.

When the treatment is over, the doctor will remove the catheter and you will be able to sit up.

When the exam is finished, the technologist may ask you to wait until the radiologist confirms that they have all of the required images.

The exam normally lasts 30 minutes.

Does the HSG test cause any type of pain?

This checkup will bring on relatively mild discomfort.

When the doctor inserts the catheter and injects the contrast substance, you may experience some minor discomfort and cramping. This is not going to last long. The peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity, may also be slightly irritated. This could result in lower abdomen pain. This should be as brief as possible. Most women have vaginal spotting for a few days following the checkup. This is common.

The Benefits of HSG Testing

An HSG test has several advantages, which include the following.

• It assists the doctor in searching for any obstructions in the fallopian tube or abnormalities in the uterus that may be causing a problem with conceiving.

• The surgery is quick, and the patient can go home immediately thereafter.

• The treatment is painless.

What are the side effects associated with the HSG test?

Cramping is the most unpleasant side effect of an HSG test. Your provider may advise you to take over-the-counter pain relievers for a few days following your HSG to help alleviate your symptoms. You may experience a sticky vaginal discharge when the dye exits your body, but these symptoms will subside.

When is the best time to do the HSG test?

A Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) test is most effective between days 1 and 14 of your menstrual cycle. This timing minimizes the possibility of you being pregnant. The test should be scheduled between days 6 and 10 of your menstrual cycle, after your menstruation has ended but before you expect to ovulate.