Overview
A Hysterosalpingogram is an x-ray exam that allows us to see your fallopian tubes and your uterus. It requires your OB/GYN doctor to place a catheter into your cervix and inject an iodinated contrast to see your anatomy while a radiologist takes x-ray pictures. You should have your partner or a family member accompany you to the hospital, as you may have minor cramping after the test.
Preparation for the exam:
Your exam should be scheduled seven to ten days after the first day of your last menstrual period. There are no dietary restrictions. It is suggested that you take 400 mg of motrin one hour prior to your exam for mild cramping after your exam.
Appointment time:
Your appointment will be scheduled ahead of time through your OB/GYNês office in conjunction with our department, since your doctor performs the exam. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam, as you will be required to register and also visit our billing office. Please keep in mind that our hospital is a Level 1 Trauma Center and emergencies often arise beyond our control. Occasionally this may delay the start of your exam. Another thing to be aware of is that we have many x-ray rooms in our department, and certain exams may only be performed in certain rooms. The order in which you arrive in our department may not necessarily be the order in which you are taken into an exam room due to room availability.
Your Hysterosalpingogram:
You will be escorted into one of our exam rooms by a radiologic technologist and asked to change into a hospital gown. Your doctor will be contacted to meet you in our exam room. A preliminary film called a "scout film" will be taken of your pelvis .You will be placed in a position similar to that of a routine GYN exam. Your doctor will insert a speculum. Your doctor will now clean off your cervix with an antiseptic solution and an instrument will be attached to the top of your cervix to prevent movement. You will feel a sting or pinch. After this, a catheter or cannula will be gently guided through the vagina to the opening of the cervix. The radiologist will now enter the room and take pictures with a special x-ray camera called a fluoroscope while an x-ray dye is injected through the catheter (cannula). You may feel some discomfort as the contrast is injected, but this should pass quickly. The time you are in the exam room should not be more than 20 minutes.
The conclusion of your exam:
You will be given a sanitary pad after the exam as minor bleeding may occur. After you are dressed and more comfortable, your OB/GYN doctor will go over the x-ray pictures with you and your partner/ family member. It is important that you do not douche, use tampons or have intercourse for 24 hours following the exam. If you have heavy bleeding or fever following the procedure, be sure to call your doctor immediately.
Results:
You OB/GYN doctor will discuss the results with you after your exam, and an official report will be given from our radiologist and sent to your doctor's office.
