HSG is an X-ray based technique used as an alternative to the gold standard of laparoscopy and hysteroscopy for assessing tubal patency and the uterine cavity. It is performed as an outpatient, without anesthetic, in the X-ray department. The test should be booked within the first half of the menstrual cycle before ovulation.
An HSG usually causes mild or moderate uterine cramping for about five minutes; however, some women may experience cramps for several hours. The symptoms can be greatly reduced by taking medications used for menstrual cramps at the same time as the antibiotics 1-2 hours prior to the procedure.
Antibiotics are given to minimize the risk of a patient developing a pelvic infection after HSG, which is an uncommon complication (the risk is less than 1%).
The chance of pregnancy after either HSG or laparoscopy to check tubal patency may be slightly higher in the 2 or 3 cycles after the test.
