Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a special X-ray examination of the womb and fallopian tubes. These are usually not well seen on plain X-ray examination.

We hope the following information will help you understand the procedure better and make your visit to Diagnostic Imaging a pleasant one.

What to expect during the examination?
Please empty your bladder before the procedure.

You will be required to lie on the X-ray couch throughout the examination. After cleaning the vagina with antiseptic solutions, the doctor will insert a fine tube through the vagina into the womb (please refer to the diagram). A small amount of contrast medium (X-ray dye) will be administered through the tube to outline the inner surface of the womb and the fallopian tubes. You may experience some lower abdominal cramps at this stage.

The radiologist (a doctor specialising in radiology) will observe the flow of the contrast medium under TV control and X-rays will be taken to document the procedure. If you feel any discomfort or pain during or after the procedure, please inform the doctor. Slight vaginal bleeding or spotting is expected over the next one to two days.

The examination takes approximately half an hour to complete.

Are there any special preparations for the test?
The test should be done after your menses has ended, and by the 12th day of your cycle (counting from the first day of your menses). After the 12th day, the lining of your uterus usually thickens and may result in confusing findings that reduce the accuracy of the test. For women in the reproductive age group, performing this test by the 12th day of the cycle would also avoid the inadvertent interference with a pregnancy.

If you have foul-smelling vaginal discharge, you should not undergo this procedure.

Radiation dose
The radiation dose you will receive is small. As such, there are no side effects from the radiation.

Will I need to be admitted?
The examination does not usually require hospital admission. It can be performed on an outpatient basis. If you are admitted to the hospital on the appointment day, please inform the ward staff to contact the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging.

Important points to note:

1. The procedure should be done after your menses has ended, and by the 12th day of your cycle (counting from the first day of your menses).
2. Please inform the doctor or radiographer if you are:
   1. Allergic to latex (rubber), any medication or antiseptic lotions.
   2. Pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant.
3. Complications (e.g. infection) may occur in a small percentage of patients. If excessive bleeding or abdominal discomfort occur after leaving the hospital, do consult the doctor at our Urgent O&G Centre, located at Basement 1, Women’s Tower. Please inform the doctor or clinic staff that you had a HSG procedure done.
4. You may wish to arrange for your husband, a relative or a friend to accompany you home or to your next destination after the procedure.
5. Please do not carry any valuables, jewellery or excessive cash with you during your appointment.