Things to expect during Hysterosalpingogram – HSG Test for Tubal Infertility

Undergoing an infertility test and treatment is not easy. It involves you investing not only your money and time but emotions and hopes. Then comes the time when you visit the best IVF centreand prepare for your HSG test as the doctor has suggested. Always try to the nearest and trusted hospital; for example, if you are in Amritsar, you would like to consult the best IVF centre in Amritsar. Choosing the best and popular IVF clinic makes you emotionally comfortable, which is highly important for any medical procedure…

It’s only normal to feel nervous or anxious about the test. But knowing about the test and what to expect during the process will help lessen your anxiety.

But before you ask what to expect during Hysterosalpingogram, let’s understand what it is and why you would need it.

What is Hysterosalpingogram?

A hysterosalpingogram or HSG test is performed to analyze the health conditions of your reproductive organs. Through this test, the doctors can examine the inside walls of your uterus and fallopian tubes.

Why do you need to perform Hysterosalpingogram?

There can be different reasons which can be causing issues in conceiving naturally, and one of them is blocked fallopian tubes. If your fallopian tubes are blocked, it stops spermsfrom reaching the eggs resulting in infertility.

To perform theHSG test procedure, a special dye is used to detect scar tissues, fibroid, polyps, and other growth in the uterus that might block your fallopian tubes and prevent fertilized eggs from implanting in your uterus.

What to expect during the HSG procedure? 

• HSG procedure is performed in the radiology lab and can take from 10 to 30 minutes.
• Your doctor will ask you to lie down on your back to get the test started.
• The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina.
• Next, a plastic tube is inserted into your cervix that leads to your uterus and fallopian tubes.
• A special dye is inserted through the plastic tube to fill your uterus and spill out of your fallopian tubes.
• An X-ray will be taken that will help your doctor evaluate the health conditions of your uterus and fallopian tubes.

Is the HSG test painful?

Most women feel minor cramps when the dye is injected, but it’s not unbearable. However, you may feel intense pain if your fallopian tubes are blocked.

Doctors might prescribe pain medicines to reduce and manage this pain. Or you can consult your doctor about taking over-the-counter pain medication 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure, so you feel less pain and discomfort.

How to prepare for the HSG procedure?

The doctors prescribe the antibiotics the day before, on the day of, and after the HSG procedure to prevent infection.

In rare cases, women have developed an allergy due to the contrast iodine solution used during the test. So, if you are allergic to shellfish, iodine, or intravenous contrast dyes, you should share this with your doctor.

Also, after the test, there are chances that you feel cramping or discomfort, so it’s advised to have someone drive you home instead of you driving yourself after the test.

Another necessary thing you should consider before scheduling the test is to know the cost of the HSG test. The HSG test cost in India might differ from city to city. So, you should check with your physician about the costbeforehand.

Going for a test might make you nervous, but knowing about the procedure beforehand will help you prepare physically and mentally. Remember, when in doubt, always consult your doctor.