Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): Pain, Procedure, and What to Expect

A hysterosalpingogram, or uterosalpingogram, is a specialized X-ray procedure designed to allow detailed imaging of the uterus and fallopian tubes. The procedure typically causes only mild pain or discomfort.

The Facts

• During a hysterosalpingogram, a special contrast dye is introduced into the uterus and fallopian tubes, according to Surgery.com. Doctors then use an X-ray imaging device called a fluoroscope to produce a series of images taken at various angles.

Cramping

• The injection of contrast dye requires the use of a catheter, and either the catheter or the dye itself may produce temporary uterine cramping or discomfort, according to the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

Abdominal Pain

• A hysterosalpingogram may also trigger irritation of the abdominal cavity lining (peritoneum), resulting in minor, temporary abdominal pain, reports the RSNA.

Considerations

• The RSNA notes that women undergoing a hysterosalpingogram typically experience vaginal spotting for several days after the procedure.

Additional Considerations

• Surgery.com notes that women with irregular menstrual cycles will need to carefully consider the timing of their procedure, since undergoing a hysterosalpingogram close to ovulation may expose a fertilized egg to dangerous amounts of X-ray radiation.