Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)


About the test

A hysterosalpingogram, or HSG, is an X-ray exam of the female reproductive organs. This test helps to see the shape of the uterus and the openness of the fallopian tubes. These tubes connect the ovaries (egg sacs) to the uterus.

Your doctor has ordered this test to check if fallopian tubes are open. If tubes are open, an egg can be fertilized and you may be able to get pregnant. This test is typically scheduled 7 to 10 days after the first day of your menstrual period.

Important to tell us

  • Tell the doctor or radiologist if you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. If it has been more than 10 days since your last menstrual period, call your doctor (Ob/Gyn) to see if you need a pregnancy test before the exam.
  • If you have an allergy to contrast medicine, tell the doctor or radiologist.
  • Tell your Ob/Gyn if you have a pelvic or vaginal infection as it may make the test unsafe to do.

Preparing for the test

  • On the day of your exam, you may take one dose of 600 milligrams (mg) ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) 2 hours before your appointment time. A 600 mg dose of ibuprofen is the same as 3 tablets of 200 mg ibuprofen. This will help you to be more comfortable during the procedure.

Day of the test

  • Please arrive 20 minutes before your appointment time.
  • Bring with you a list of your current medicines, your insurance card, and a photo ID.

During the test

  • You will be asked to take a urine pregnancy test before your procedure. This will be done in the testing area.
  • For the test, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and a gown, or cover, will be given to you. You will then lay down on the table on your back with your knees bent.
  • Your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina, just like a normal pelvic exam. Your cervix will be cleaned with a special soap, and a small clamp will be placed on your cervix.
  • A small tube is then placed through the opening of your cervix. Your doctor will inject a small amount of contrast material through the tube while watching on a screen. Contrast medicine allows the uterus and tubes to be seen with X-ray.
  • During the injection of the contrast, you will have some cramping, but it will not last long. X-rays will be taken while the contrast is in your uterus.

After the tests

  • Wear a pad to collect the brown discharge from the contrast medicine for the rest of the day. Do not use a tampon.
  • It is normal to have a small amount of bleeding after the test.
  • If you have cramping, you may take an over-the-counter pain medicine as directed on the label.

When to call your doctor

Call the doctor for follow up care if you have these signs:

  • Excessive bleeding or soaking a pad in an hour.
  • Fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
  • Bleeding that lasts more than 3 days.
  • Severe pain in the abdomen or increasing pain in the pelvis.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call 614-293-4333. Radiology Scheduling will connect you to a qualified staff member who will answer your questions.
 

© 2002 – January 18, 2022, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care. For more health information, call the Library for Health Information at 614-293-3707 or email: health-info@osu.edu.