Is the Procedure Uncomfortable?
The procedure will cause some cramping and discomfort. Most patients do well when taking an 800 mg Motrin (ibuprofen) tablet 1 hour prior to the procedure. If you cannot take Motrin, or have excessive anxiety, your physician may prescribe other medications such as narcotics and/or sedatives. It is important that you do not drive a car during the 12 hours following the use of narcotics or anxiolytics. It is also important that a responsible adult accompany you to provide transportation and observation following the procedure, no matter which medications you have taken prior to the procedure.
To undergo an HSG, the patient first lies flat on an X-ray table. A vaginal speculum is then inserted (much like the speculum insertion during a Pap smear). The cervix is grasped with a holding instrument, and a small probe is inserted into the cervical canal. After injection of the liquid dye, the uterus may respond by having cramp-like contractions. Such cramps sometimes cause spasms in the tube.
What are the Complications and Side Effects of Hysterosalpingography?
During the insertion of the instruments and injection of the dye, there will likely be cramping and discomfort which usually disappears after a few minutes. A small percent
of patients may experience prolonged discomfort, especially when the tubes are blocked and the liquid dye is unable to flow out of the uterus promptly.
A small percentage of patients may develop infection of the lining of the uterus, tubes or pelvis following this procedure. This is more common when the tubes have been damaged previously by infection or other causes. Infection in the tubes could lead to infertility, but the risk of infection is low (commonly estimated at 1%). If your HSG shows blockage of the tubes, you may be issued an antibiotic prescription to help prevent subsequent infection.
Allergic reactions are possible after injection of the iodine-based dye. During the procedure, a small amount of X-ray irradiation will be directed into the pelvic area and ovaries. The possibility of injury to an unfertilized or recently fertilized egg exists. Although the risk of causing a miscarriage or a malformed infant is not documented, the precise risk is unknown.
The potential risks of this procedure must be balanced against the information to be gained in evaluating the cause of the infertility.
What are the Alternatives to Hysterosalpingography?
The information gained from an HSG can also be obtained by laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. Information about the uterine cavity may also be gained by a saline contrast ultrasound. For more information on these procedures, please click here.
Should I use Contraception during the Cycle I have my HSG?
The risk of abnormalites or problems related to the HSG are exceedningly rare. There is some evidence in the medical literature that conceptions rates may be greater in the cycles immediately following an HSG. You should consult your physician if you feel you may be pregnant.
After Having Hysterosalpingography:
- There will be slight vaginal bleeding and/or discharge for a few days after the procedure. If bleeding increases or persists more than a few days, call your physician.
- There may be moderate pain or cramping for several hours after the procedure. If the pain increases or persists overnight, call your physician.
- Fever (temperature> 100.5 degrees F) with persistent pain may indicate the possibility of early infection. These symptoms should be reported to your physician or to the Emergency Room immediately.
- Douching, vaginal intercourse, or use of tampons should be delayed until 48 hours after the procedure.
- If you have any problems after the procedure you should come to the clinic or call the infertility clinic at (530) 771-0177.
- For after hours emergencies please report directly to the emergency room
