Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Testing Clinic in Provo, and North Logan, UT
At Conceptions Fertility Center, Dr. Andrew Moore performs hysterosalpingograms (HSG) to evaluate the health and structure of the uterus and fallopian tubes. This procedure involves using X-ray technology and a contrast dye to check for blockages or abnormalities, helping to identify potential causes of infertility. HSG is a key diagnostic tool for patients undergoing fertility assessments. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Provo UT, North Logan UT, and surrounding areas.
Table of Contents:
What is Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) testing?
How long does an HSG procedure take?
When should HSG testing be done?
What is a normal HSG result?
The procedure, which involves the use of a special dye and X-ray imaging, allows our skilled medical team to evaluate the condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes thoroughly. It starts with the insertion of a thin tube into the vagina, guided through the cervix and into the uterus. A special dye is then introduced through the tube, which illuminates any potential abnormalities or blockages that could be causing reproductive health challenges.
Once the dye is introduced, our radiologists capture X-ray images, providing a detailed visualization of the uterus and fallopian tubes. The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes and is typically performed in our state-of-the-art radiology department. While some discomfort may be experienced, our team ensures the administration of analgesics or sedatives to manage pain effectively.
The timing of the HSG test at Conceptions Fertility Center is meticulously planned, usually post-menstruation but pre-ovulation, to ensure the patient is not pregnant during the procedure. This test can reveal crucial information about the health and condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes, unveiling potential issues such as scar tissue, polyps, fibroids, or malformations. In some cases, the procedure can even enhance fertility by eliminating minor blockages in the fallopian tubes.
At Conceptions Fertility Center, we prioritize patient safety and ensure our patients understand the possible risks associated with HSG testing, which may include allergic reactions to the dye, infection, or injury to the uterus. However, these complications are rare. We advise our patients to rest after the procedure and encourage them to report any unusual symptoms to our medical team immediately. Despite the potential risks, HSG testing is a valuable tool in our diagnostic arsenal, empowering us to understand and address various fertility issues effectively and holistically.
While the duration of the HSG procedure can differ based on several factors, generally, you can anticipate that the entire process from arrival to departure at our center may take a couple of hours. The actual examination, which involves injecting a contrast material into your uterus and fallopian tubes for enhanced imaging, typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Prior to the procedure, there will be a preparation phase where you may need to undress, put on a hospital gown, remove any jewelry, and empty your bladder. This usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes. If you opt for anesthesia or sedation to reduce discomfort, this will add another 15 to 30 minutes for administration and monitoring.
The X-ray imaging process in itself typically lasts a few minutes, but our experienced healthcare providers may take additional images as needed to ensure a detailed visualization of your uterus and fallopian tubes.
After the procedure, we typically recommend a recovery time of about 10 to 15 minutes, during which we monitor your well-being.
Please note that the duration of an HSG procedure can vary based on individual patient’s anatomy, the experience of our healthcare provider, and any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the examination. We encourage you to have a clear understanding of the procedure and to discuss any questions or concerns with the healthcare providers beforehand.
This test is particularly beneficial for women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages, have had difficulty conceiving, or have had an ectopic pregnancy. By identifying potential structural issues, like fibroids, polyps, septum, or congenital anomalies, our specialists can determine the best treatment options for enhancing fertility.
We also recommend HSG testing for couples who have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for over a year. This test can help us uncover potential infertility factors and create a personalized treatment plan. Women with conditions like PCOS or uterine bleeding disorders who are experiencing chronic pelvic pain or menstrual irregularities may also benefit from an HSG test.
HSG testing can also be utilized to evaluate the uterus’s shape and cavity size before performing various medical procedures like uterine fibroid removal, IUD placement, sterilization reversal, or in vitro fertilization (IVF). It also allows confirmation of the success of these procedures and estimates the chances of future conception.
However, it’s important to note that not all women are suitable candidates for HSG testing. Those with active pelvic infections, severe iodine allergies, or who are currently pregnant or may soon be pregnant, may not be able to undergo the procedure.
At Conceptions Fertility Center, we ensure that HSG testing is appropriately timed, ideally between day 6 and day 12 of a woman’s menstrual cycle, to avoid interference with early pregnancy.
In conclusion, HSG testing is one of the many diagnostic tools we use at Conceptions Fertility Center to understand women’s reproductive health better and aid in fertility treatment planning. However, it’s essential that it is performed under the guidance of our trained healthcare professionals, who consider everyone’s unique health conditions and fertility goals. If you are considering HSG testing, we invite you to consult with our team to discuss whether it is the right diagnostic tool for your specific situation.
HSG is an imaging procedure that uses X-rays to assess the structure and functionality of the uterus and fallopian tubes. This test plays a crucial role in identifying any potential causes of infertility. A healthy HSG result generally implies a properly functioning reproductive system, with primary attention given to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
What a Normal HSG Result Shows:
● Uterus:
• The uterus is symmetrical, and its size and shape are normal.
• The uterine cavity has a regular shape, with no abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, or adhesions that could affect fertility or pregnancy.
● Fallopian Tubes:
• Both fallopian tubes are visible, patent (open and unblocked), and the contrast material flows freely through these tubes and spills into the peritoneal cavity, which is around the ovaries. This suggests there are no obstructions that could prevent the egg from travelling to the uterus, a crucial step for natural conception.
● Other Structures:
• The cervix, ovaries, and surrounding structures are normal, with no signs of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other infections.
During the HSG, you may feel a small amount of discomfort or cramping, especially when the contrast material is injected. Mild bleeding may occur post-procedure but should clear up within a week. Please note that while a normal HSG result is encouraging, it does not guarantee natural conception. Factors such as your partner’s fertility and your ovulation patterns also play significant roles.
Also, an HSG test is not a treatment procedure. It is a diagnostic tool used to detect potential issues with the uterus or fallopian tubes that could contribute to infertility. Even with a normal result, fertility treatment may still be necessary depending on other factors. Should any abnormal findings be detected during the HSG, our team at Conceptions Fertility Center will conduct further evaluations to determine the underlying cause and discuss the most suitable treatment options with you. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Provo UT, Orem UT, Mapleton UT, Vineyard UT, Highland UT, North Logan UT, Hyde Park UT, Smithfield UT, Benson UT, Logan UT, and surrounding areas.