Hysterosalpingography, also called a hysterosalpingogram or uterosalpingogram, is an x-ray test that examines a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes (structures that transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus). It is often used to diagnose problems with infertility.
A tube is threaded through your vagina to inject a contrast material (dye) into your uterus. The dye will be highlighted on the images of the X-rays, helping your doctor to determine if your uterus has a strange shape or if you have blocked fallopian tubes.
You may feel some pain while taking the test. Your doctor may prescribe pain medicine such as ibuprofen and aspirin to help you relax.
Before the procedure starts, your cervix will be cleaned and your vagina with antibacterial liquid soap. The doctor may insert thin clamps on the cervix, to hold it in place as the dye is administered into your uterus.
Once the uterus has been injected with contrast, you will lie on a table in an x-ray department. You will wear stirrups to keep your feet from touching the floor. Then a tool called a speculum is placed into your vagina so that the doctor can get an image of your uterus.
A radiologist (a specialist who studies X-rays) uses fluoroscopy to monitor the contrast dye as they move through your uterus. The radiologist then takes images of the pelvis.
Before the test you will need to inform your doctor of any health conditions. You might have a medical condition that affects the blood pressure or a past history of bleeding. You will also need to list all medications, including supplements.
You can also discuss with your doctor if you have any allergies to iodine-based contrast materials. You can also talk to your doctor about any allergies you might have to iodine contrast materials.
Genetic testing involves a DNA test to look for changes that may indicate your risk of developing certain diseases. It can also give you information on your risk of becoming pregnant, and about treatment options if there is a family history or cancer in the family.
If you have had multiple miscarriages and/or difficulty becoming pregnant, your doctor might order the test. Your doctor may order the test if the tubal surgery was performed or if the tubal ligation was performed (a procedure that closes off the fallopian pipes). This test can also be performed if you wish to verify whether your tubal-ligation procedure has been successfully reversed.
You may need a qualified radiologist and a hospital that provides this service. Your doctor will answer all of your questions and can recommend the appropriate facility.
The test usually takes less than 5 minutes to complete. The test is usually performed when your menstrual period has ended, but before your ovulation. This allows you to exclude pregnancy.
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