Hysterosalpingography

Dr. Iman Yahya - Obstetrician, Gynecologist, Infertility, and Cosmetic Gynecology Specialist with 38 years of experience. Hysterosalpingography – HSG, the dye-based imaging of the uterus and fallopian tubes. What is the test? It is an X-ray examination in which a medical dye is inserted through the cervix, then X-ray images are taken to determine: the shape of the uterine cavity, the safety of the fallopian tubes, the presence of blockage or deformities. Why is it requested? It is often used in cases of: delayed pregnancy, suspicion of tube blockage, recurrent miscarriage, assessment of uterine deformities. How is it done? A small catheter is placed inside the cervix. The dye is gradually injected. X-ray images are taken to monitor the passage of the dye inside the uterus and tubes. If the dye exits into the abdominal cavity → the tubes are healthy. If the dye stops → there may be a blockage. Is it painful? It may cause pain similar to menstrual pain during dye injection. It usually takes 10–20 minutes. The doctor may prescribe pain relief before the test. When is it performed? Usually right after the end of the period (day 7–10 of the cycle), with confirmation that there is no pregnancy.