A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a procedure performed to assess the uterus (womb) and whether the fallopian tubes are open (patency). It may also provide information about other gynaecological abnormalities.

HSGs are not normally carried out if you have a high body mass index (>35) due to unreliable diagnostic quality of the x-ray.

How to Arrange an Appointment

• When your period starts, call the X-ray appointment service as soon as possible and ask for an appointment for a hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
• The appointments office is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. If your period starts at the weekend, call first thing on Monday.
• The secretary will try to offer you an appointment within the first 7 – 11 days of your period starting. The service is very busy, so you may not get an appointment the first month you call. Occasionally, it can be up to 3 months (cycles) before an appointment is offered, but priority is given to patients who have been turned down the previous month.

For an appointment, call 01324 567030

Where is the Test Carried Out?

• HSGs are carried out in the X-ray department on the ground floor of Forth Valley Royal Hospital.
• If you have difficulty locating the X-ray department, ask a member of staff for directions.

The Procedure

• After undressing and putting on a disposable gown, you will be asked to lie on the examination couch with an X-ray machine positioned over your pelvis.
• A fine catheter will be passed through your cervix (neck of the womb). This may be a little uncomfortable (similar to a smear test) but should not be painful.
• The doctor or nurse will inject a small amount of dye through the catheter, which will pass into the uterus and through the fallopian tubes. The passage of the dye will be observed on a monitor and several X-rays will be taken.
• The procedure takes 10 – 15 minutes.

After the Procedure

• Generally, there are no side effects associated with this test, but some women experience mild to moderate “period” type cramps during or just after the procedure.
• There may also be slight vaginal bleeding after the examination. This is nothing to worry about and the discomfort will be brief.

The Results of Your Test

• A report of the findings will be sent to your gynaecologist or fertility nurse specialist.
• You will receive a letter advising you of the results approximately 4 – 6 weeks after the test has been carried out.