Understanding HSG test and its importance

An HSG test or Hysterosalpingogram test allows your doctor to examine the inside walls of your fallopian tubes and uterus. The procedure is minor, and it gives information about the contour and shape of the uterus and detects the presence of fibroids, polyps, or scarring. The procedure also helps in identifying if the fallopian tubes are open or not.

When your fallopian tubes are blocked and your uterus has some abnormal growth, your chances of getting pregnant are reduced. Blocked fallopian tubes prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. HSG test uses a special dye to identify the scar tissue, fibroids, polyps, and other abnormalities preventing fertilization.

What should you expect during the HSG test?

An HSG test is done in a laboratory, and it takes 10-30 minutes. In the HSG test procedure, the doctor inserts a speculum in the vagina of the patient, and then a thin plastic tube is inserted in the cervix, which will lead to the uterus and the fallopian tubes. Through the plastic tube, a special dye is injected, which fills the uterus and the fallopian tube. After this, an x-ray will be done, and the doctor will evaluate your uterus and fallopian tubes.

Is the HSG procedure painful?

Some women may complain of cramping when the dye is inserted and women having blocked fallopian tubes feel intense pain. In such cases, over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen are given to relieve the pain.

IVF doctors in Hyderabad may recommend you take pain medications 30-60 minutes before the procedure to minimize the pain during the HSG treatment.

Risk of HSG test

There are a few risks of HSG test like:

1. High chance of infection
2. Vaginal bleeding or spotting
3. Pain and discomfort during the process

You should immediately contact your doctor if:

1. You have a fever or pain, which continues for a few days.
2. You are bleeding heavily.
3. You have low abdominal pain.
4. You are experiencing bad-smelling discharge.

Sometimes a woman may have an allergy to the dye used in the procedure. Such patients having allergies should inform the physician before the procedure is conducted.

Best time to get the HSG test done

The HSG test should be conducted after your periods and before your ovulation. Usually, women ovulate between days 5 to 10 of the cycle. You should count day 1 when your periods begin.

HSG test cost in India

HSG test cost varies with the laboratory that you choose. However, its cost starts from Rs. 800 to 4000 depending on the city you reside in and the lab you choose.

Preparation for HSG

A woman is given antibiotics prior to the procedure to prevent infection. The patient should call on day 1 of her period to schedule an HSG test. Once you schedule the procedure, the staff of the lab will discuss all the details you need to know about the procedure. HSG test is a very important test to identify the cause of your infertility. After looking at the reports, your doctor will talk to you about the options and will make the best decision for you.