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Texas Super Doctors - Legacy Member

Now Offering Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Testing to Help Women Understand Their Bodies & Overcome Infertility

If you dream of being a parent but are experiencing difficulty getting pregnant, it can be devastating. The best way to overcome fertility issues and improve your chances of pregnancy is to consult with a fertility center. At the Fertility Center of San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, one of our fertility specialists can conduct hysterosalpingogram (HSG) testing to help families get a helpful, accurate diagnosis.

What Is an HSG?

An HSG or hysterosalpingogram is a special type of x-ray that shows the inside of the uterus, revealing blocked fallopian tubes and other irregularities. If you are experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant, one of our doctors may recommend an HSG as the first step in diagnosing and treating infertility.

Some of the uterine abnormalities that can contribute to infertility include:

  • Structural anomalies, including congenital malformations or acquired abnormalities
  • Scar tissue
  • Fallopian tube blockage
  • Fibroids, tumors, or polyps

What to Expect during Your HSG Test

If you’ve never had an HSG before, the process can seem intimidating. But our fertility specialists are available to guide you through every step of your exam. The test is somewhat similar to undergoing a pelvic exam.
Depending upon your needs, our team can administer several tests to determine the source of infertility and plan treatment accordingly.

Preparation

Our team will schedule your exam immediately after your period but before you begin ovulating, so these exams usually take place during the first two weeks of your menstrual cycle. Although there is minimal discomfort associated with the procedure, some patients experience mild cramping, so our doctors may recommend that you take over-the-counter pain medication such as Advil, Tylenol, or Motrin before your test.
By providing HSG testing on-site rather than referring your imaging to an outside facility, we can provide the most convenient and cost-effective care possible.

HSG Test

During the exam, you will be dressed in a hospital gown and asked to lie down under an x-ray imaging device. Your vagina will be opened with a speculum and a very thin tube called a cannula will be inserted into the vaginal opening and through the cervix. Next, the doctor will clean the cervix, and in some instances, inject a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The injection may induce a feeling like a pinch. Through the cannula, we will inject a contrast material, which will appear white on x-rays.

Our team will then take a series of x-rays to trace the material as it moves through the uterus. If the dye fills the fallopian tubes and flows into the pelvic cavity, then the tubes are open. If the dye stops moving through the uterus at any point, there may be abnormalities or blockages.

Recovery & Results

A hysterosalpingogram can be completed in approximately five minutes and most women can go home immediately after the exam. Because there is no sedation required, you can drive yourself to and from your appointment. Besides some spotting and cramping, there should be no major side effects. You may be given medication to prevent possible infection. Our doctors will review your images and prepare your results soon after.

Potential Side Effects of a Hysterosalpingogram

Patients may experience cramps much like ones felt during a menstrual cycle. Minor vaginal discharge or bleeding are also somewhat common after a hysterosalpingogram. Patients should plan on using a pad instead of a tampon during this time to avoid infection. Additionally, some women feel dizzy and nauseous, which should resolve relatively quickly.

Signs of an infection or complication include:

  • Severe discomfort and cramping
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding
  • Fainting
If you experience these symptoms, you should call our doctors or visit an emergency room.

An HSG Test Can Reveal the Cause of Your Infertility

In order to become pregnant, many parts of the body must work in tandem. The ovaries need to release eggs each month in a process known as ovulation, the uterus must not have any structural problems, and your fallopian tubes need to be free of blockages. If even one of these is not functioning normally, pregnancy becomes much more difficult.

If our fertility specialists identify any structural abnormalities during your HSG, we may recommend a follow-up procedure known as laparoscopy. Based on your diagnosis, we may also discuss IVF options with you.

Everyone Deserves Answers

At Fertility Center of San Antonio, our mission is to provide state-of-the-art fertility testing and IVF treatment in a supportive, affordable setting. To make treatment affordable for all patients, we offer flexible financing options through CapexMD and Lending Club Patient Solutions. By providing HSG testing on-site rather than referring your imaging to an outside facility, we can provide the most convenient and cost-effective care possible. To learn more about HSG testing and how it can help you overcome infertility, request a consultation online or call us at (210) 692-0577.