Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

We do our certified DHEC approved Hysterosalpingogram in the Greenville and Columbia offices in South Carolina and Asheville, North Carolina. This makes your procedure private, less expensive and more convenient for our patients.

Patient Instructions for Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

Your doctor has ordered a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) as part of your infertility treatment and evaluation plan. It is a valuable procedure for examining the inside of the uterus or womb (endometrial cavity) and the fallopian tubes.

Preparation

Please call Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group (PREG) at 866-725-7734 to set up your hysterosalpingogram when your menstrual period starts. If your period starts on the weekend, please call us on the following Monday. Your Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) will typically be scheduled for the following week between cycle days 5 to 11. Please let your physician know if there is any possibility that you may be pregnant.

Please inform your physician if you have any known allergies to IVP dye, iodine, or shellfish. The X-ray dye used to perform the Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is iodine-based.

Most patients tolerate this procedure very well. Some women have cramping during the procedure and prefer to take medication for cramps prior to a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG). We recommend Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), 3 tablets (200 mg per tablet) or Acetominophen (Extra Strength Tylenol), 2 tablets (500 mg per tablet).

Procedure

A speculum is placed in the vagina and the cervix is then cleaned with an antiseptic solution (betadine). A small catheter tip is gently introduced into the cervical canal. X-ray dye is then put into the uterus through the catheter. X-rays are taken as the dye progresses through the uterus, fallopian tubes, and into the pelvis. When the procedure is finished, the speculum and catheter are gently removed.

You may experience slight pressure and/or cramping during insertion or removal of the catheter, or during the infusion of the X-ray dye.

Once the procedure is completed you will discuss your findings and any follow-up treatment with your PREG provider or your referring physician.

After Your Hysterosalpingogram

You may have some cramping, spotting or bleeding for up to seven days. Please call the office at 864-232-7734 if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Heavy bleeding (more than a period)
• Fever greater than 100.4 F.

Heating pad on the low setting applied to the stomach or back may add to your comfort.

You may also use ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), 3 tablets (200 mg per tablet) every 6 hours with food or Acetominophen (Extra Strength Tylenol), 2 tablets (500 mg per tablet) every 4 hours as needed for cramps.

Who Should Not Get a Hysterosalpingogram

• If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant.
• If there is any evidence of any vaginal, cervical or pelvic infection.
• If you have active vaginal bleeding.