The hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a test done to identify fertility issues. It is a minimally invasive procedure usually performed in a radiology area or a specialised clinic.
It helps to identify any blockage in the fallopian tube, thus increasing the pregnancy rate. There are several benefits for women, as it allows doctors to identify the conditions and treat them accordingly. This blog will help you understand the benefits and clear doubts about the HSG test.
Benefits of the HSG Test
The HSG test helps to understand and diagnose reproductive health. The advantages of HSG are listed below:
Diagnosis of Blocked Fallopian Tube
The HSG test is an X-ray method that helps to identify any blockage in the fallopian tube. The blockage in the fallopian tube causes problems in pregnancy. Hence, removing the blockage in the fallopian tube through diagnosis will ease the process of fertilisation.
Uterine Abnormalities
HSG diagnosis helps to identify if the shape of the uterus is irregular. Issues like fibroids, polyps, congenital defects, or scar tissue can cause difficulty in pregnancy.
Treatment Guidance
Identification of any abnormalities in the uterus needs personalised guidance and treatment. HSG helps to guide in personalising the treatment plans and surgeries or in deciding on assisted reproductive technologies.
Therapeutic
For an HSG test, a contrast dye is used. In some cases, this dye can clear any tiny blockage in the tube during the procedure. This improves the chance of fertility, making HSG a therapeutic method.
Rapid and Minimally invasive
HSG is an easy procedure that takes only ten to fifteen minutes. Additionally, after a short period, the patient can go back to their regular activity.
Early Diagnosis
HSG helps to identify the problem early, and couples can focus on their treatment options and increase their success rates.
Future Studies
If the HSG test is negative, then there are several chances to rule out conditions that are not associated with it. This helps the doctor to focus on other issues, such as sperm quality or ovulation disorder.
When to Choose the HSG Test?
There are several reasons to choose the hysterosalpingogram test, and its step in the evolution of fertility for women is explained below:
- Experience with multiple miscarriages
- If there are any symptoms of tubal or uterine disease.
- Unknown infertility even after trying to conceive for a year
- If you undergo treatment for infertility, namely in vitro fertilisation.
Step-by-Step Guide Towards HSG Procedure
Understanding the procedure of HSG helps you to feel comfortable and understand the situation better.
Before starting the HSG procedure, you will sign a consent form, and the next steps are listed below:
Step 1: After entering the room, your doctor will ask you to lie with your back rested on the table, your knees bent, and feet supported on the footrests.
Step 2: They will place a speculum into your vagina.
Step 3: Your doctor will clean the area with povidone-iodine or an antiseptic solution. This can decrease the infection rate.
Step 4: Your doctor will then insert a thin catheter through the cervix.
Step 5: They will then position a radiology machine on the abdomen.
Step 6: Your doctor will insert a contrast dye into the catheter and flush it into the uterus cavity and the fallopian tube. You may feel a mild cramp after the dye enters your system.
Step 7: The X-ray is taken once the dye is injected. Your doctor will remove the speculum once the procedure is completed.
You will get the result in the next few days and can consult with your doctor on the future steps.
The Best Time to Take an HSG Test
It is advisable to get the HSG test after the menstrual cycle. Do not do the test during ovulation, as the radiation can affect the chances of pregnancy. The timing after the menstrual cycle will help to clear any blocked fallopian tube and clear debris.
Expectations After HSG Test
Once the HSG test is completed, you may experience slight cramps or vaginal spotting. Eighty per cent of the women experienced moderate pain during the process. The pain and the spotting will subside in two days. If the pain is not bearable, then you can take over-the-counter drugs and rest well. Moreover, dye leakage is common and nothing to worry about.
Pregnancy Symptoms After HSG Test
The symptoms of an HSG test are similar to those of pregnancy. The symptoms to be aware of are listed below:
- Breast Tenderness
- Vomiting and Nausea
- Missed Periods
- Fatigue
If you are trying for pregnancy and you find these symptoms after an HSG test, it is important to conduct a pregnancy test or consult your doctor.
HSC Test Cost
The cost of an HSC differs depending on several factors, namely the geographical locations, medical facility type, and other services. The cost can vary from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 7,000.
Conclusion
HSG is a procedure that women undergo to identify uterine issues that are in the way of pregnancy. Blocked fallopian tubes can prevent the sperm from reaching the ovary, affecting the ovulation process. The HSG procedure helps to detect the blockage and enables physicians to give the appropriate treatment and curate plans.
Yes, there is a chance that HSG tests can improve fertility. This is because the dye and the cleansing process can remove mild blockages in the tube. However, the concept of dye solution is in debate among doctors.
After the HSG procedure, one may experience mild cramps and spotting, and sometimes the dye can also be seen, which is a normal process.
After the HSG procedure is completed, you can try it within several days, as the procedure helps to conceive.
Yes, there is a possibility to have negative HSG results due to spam. To rule out the negative result, tubal patency is the alternative solution.
The amount of an HSG test in India can cost between Rs. 1000 and Rs. 7000, depending on the geographical area and facilities of the clinic.
