Beginning with this blog, I will be doing a series about common infertility testing. When you first visit a reproductive endocrinologist, you will hear about a myriad of testing procedures. This can be confusing and cause anxiety. I know it did for me. I’ll start this series by talking about a test called the hystersalpinogram.
I had this test done twice, once fairly early in my six years of infertility and the second time just prior to undergoing IUI to conceive our first baby. The hystersalpinogram is a very long name for a fairly simple test. The test is basically an x-ray that shows the inside of the fallopian tubes and uterus.
Dye is fed through a catheter into the uterus and up through the tubes. The dye allows a clear picture on the x-ray. In a normal test, the dye moves completely through the tubes and into the abdominal cavity. This indicates that the tubes are clear. If any blockages or adhesions are present, they will show in the x-ray image.
This test is done before the tenth day of your menstrual cycle, to be certain you are not pregnant. You will experience a bit of cramping during and after the procedure. Your doctor may recommend that you take a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen prior to the procedure. You may want to take your partner along with you, both for support and to drive you home after the procedure.
When I first had this test done, my doctor told me the test alone is sometimes enough to help a woman conceive. He said that minor blockages are sometimes loosened and pushed out of the tube by the force of the dye. In some cases, the woman will get pregnant on her own just after having a hystersalpinogram.
Well, that didn’t happen in our case either time. But it is possible. The hystersalpinogram is nothing to be feared, despite its medical name. It was about as uncomfortable as bad period cramps, but ibuprofen and a heating pad took care of the pain. The test gives you and your doctor some valuable information, so it is well worth it.
Related Articles:
Understanding the Language of Infertility
Finding the Right Infertility Specialist
Paying for Infertility Treatments