Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Procedure

Is unexplained infertility leaving you with more questions than answers? A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) can identify the root cause of your challenges and help guide you on your path to pregnancy.

Get the answers you need and the compassionate care you deserve at Pacific Reproductive Center.

What Is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)?

A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an outpatient X-ray procedure used to diagnose irregularities in the uterus or fallopian tubes that may affect your ability to get pregnant. This procedure is typically scheduled during the first half of your menstrual cycle before you ovulate.

During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected into (and fills) your uterus and fallopian tubes. This dye creates a clear outline of these reproductive structures, making them visible on the X-ray. If the X-ray reveals that the dye is moving freely through your fallopian tubes, it indicates they are open and do not have any blockages or structural abnormalities.

However, if the X-ray reveals that the dye is not moving freely, it suggests a blockage or abnormality in one or both of your fallopian tubes.

Is a hysterosalpingogram painful?

An HSG is known to cause temporary pain and discomfort, which can range from mild to severe—this varies from person to person.

Most women feel cramping when the dye is injected into the uterus. Why? As it fills, the uterus begins to contract, causing symptoms similar to menstrual cramping as it tries to flush the dye out of the body. This cramping can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours following the procedure.

If needed, you can take an over-the-counter pain medication to help alleviate symptoms.

Common Hysterosalpingogram Side Effects

Symptoms of an HSG can include:

• Cramping (similar to menstrual cramps)
• Light vaginal bleeding for a few days following the procedure
• Sticky vaginal discharge
• Temporary dizziness or nausea
• Allergic reaction from the contrast dye

Severe complications are very rare but can include:

• Pelvic infection
• Injury to the uterus or cervix
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Fainting

In some cases, you may be prescribed an antibiotic after the procedure. If you experience increased pain, fever, or heavy bleeding after the exam, contact your doctor or fertility specialist immediately and follow their instructions.

Is It Safe To Get Pregnant After a Hysterosalpingogram?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to try to become pregnant after a hysterosalpingogram ultrasound.

However, it is important to check with your doctor or fertility specialists to determine the best timing, especially if you are beginning fertility medications or treatment.

What Is Recovery Like?

Most women can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure, including driving, but you may feel abdominal cramping and aching. Rest is recommended.

It is also important to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for a day to two to prevent any potential complications.

Hysterosalpingogram Results: What to Expect

Results from an HSG are usually available within a week of the procedure. Your provider or fertility specialist will review the results with you and advise on next steps. If the HSG shows a blockage, they may recommend additional procedures to further diagnose or treat the problem.

Or they may recommend fertility treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF), which do not require your fallopian tubes to be clear.

Hysterosalpingogram Cost

The cost of an HSG procedure can vary depending on where you live and whether you have health insurance. As a diagnostic procedure, many health insurance companies typically cover the cost of HSGs.

However, it’s important to contact your insurance provider to fully understand your benefits and any out-of-pocket expenses, like deductibles or co-pays. This will help you plan accordingly and avoid any unexpected costs.

Hysterosalpingogram Procedure in Southern California

Pacific Reproductive Center has helped thousands of couples fulfill their dream of building a family.

We offer a range of testing and diagnostic services for both men and women to assess overall fertility and guide your path toward parenthood with compassion. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.