Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

	Where is the HSG procedure done?
	Can I eat and drink prior to and after the HSG procedure?
	How long does the HSG procedure take?
	Can I leave immediately after the HSG?
	Is an HSG uncomfortable?
	How much time do I need to arrive before my HSG appointment?
	What are the risks and complications of HSG?
	If I am allergic to anti-inflammatories what else can I take for pain relief?
	How soon do I get the results from the HSG?
	Can my husband or someone else be in the room with me?
	Can a HSG be done on Saturday or Sunday?
	If I am still bleeding on the day of my HSG is it okay?
	How soon can I have intercourse after having the procedure?
	Can I drive after having the HSG done?
	Will I be able to go back to work after the procedure?
	Do I have to pay for a HSG?
	Does a hysterosalpingogram enhance fertility?

Where is the HSG procedure done?

All HSG procedures are done on the fourth floor of the Foothills Medical Centre. Click here for a map to the hospital.

Can I eat and drink prior to and after the HSG procedure?

Yes, but try to avoid dairy products when taking the antibiotic because it can cause stomach upset.

How long does the HSG procedure take?

The procedure itself takes about 5 minutes but you may be in the hospital up to an hour as there are other patients booked at the same time as you.

Can I leave immediately after the HSG?

Yes.

Is an HSG uncomfortable?

An HSG may cause mild or moderate uterine cramping for about five minutes. However, some women may experience cramps for several hours. The symptoms can be greatly reduced taking medications used for menstrual cramps.

How much time do I need to arrive before my HSG appointment?

Please arrive 20-30 minutes, prior to your appointment to ensure appropriate time to check-in.

What are the risks and complications of HSG?

An HSG is considered a very safe procedure. However, there are some recognized complications, some serious, which occur less than 1% of the time.

Infection

The most common serious problem with HSG is pelvic infection. This usually occurs in the presence of previous tubal disease. In rare cases, infection can damage the fallopian tubes or necessitate their removal. A woman should call her doctor if she experiences increasing pain or a fever within one to two days of the HSG.

Fainting

Rarely the patient may get light-headed during, or shortly after, the procedure.

Radiation Exposure

Radiation exposure from an HSG is very low, less than from a kidney or bowel study. There have been no demonstrated ill effects from this radiation, even if conception occurs later the same month. The HSG should not be done if pregnancy is suspected.

Iodine Allergy

Rarely a patient may have an allergy to the iodine contrast used in an HSG. A patient should inform her doctor if she is allergic to iodine or seafood. If a patient experiences a rash, itching, or swelling after the procedure, she should contact her doctor.

Spotting

Spotting commonly occurs for one to two days after the HSG. A patient should notify her doctor if she experiences heavy bleeding after the HSG.

If I am allergic to anti-inflammatories what else can I take for pain relief?

Tylenol extra strength 2 tablets 2 hours prior to the HSG .

How soon do I get the results from the HSG?

You will generally be informed of the results at the time of the procedure. However, it is important to make a follow-up appointment with your physician at the same time the nurse books your HSG.

Can my husband or someone else be in the room with me?

No, generally not in view of the risk of radiation exposure.

Can a HSG be done on Saturday or Sunday?

No, HSGs are only done Monday-Thursday @ 8:00 am or Fridays @ 8:30 am.

If I am still bleeding on the day of my HSG is it okay?

No, a HSG can't be done if you have full flow bleeding. However, if you are just lightly spotting you can still have the HSG done.

How soon can I have intercourse after having the procedure?

If there are no complications 3-4 days later.

Can I drive after having the HSG done?

Yes, but we recommend that someone drive you to and from the procedure in the event you may have abdominal cramping.

Will I be able to go back to work after the procedure?

It all depends on how you feel, you may need to take a half day or a full day off work depending on how much cramping you have after the procedure.

Do I have to pay for a HSG?

The HSG is covered under your provincial health care plan.

Does a hysterosalpingogram enhance fertility?

It is controversial whether this procedure enhances fertility. Some studies indicate a slight increase in fertility lasting about three months after a normal HSG. Most physicians perform the HSG only for diagnostic reasons.