Here is information regarding HSG -

HSG - What is this?

 - The hysterosalpingogram is an x-ray picture of the uterine cavity and the inside of the fallopian tubes. The test is performed in the radiology suite and involves instilling x-ray contract material (dye) through the cervix.  As the dye fills the uterus and tubes it creates an outline of the inner surfaces of those structures.  By watching dye spill into the pelvic cavity, we can determine that a tube is open.

Does it hurt?

-Unfortunately it will be uncomfortable - much like bad menstrual cramps. However, the discomfort is short-lived and the medications you will be given to take prior to the procedure will help.

(I did have a take a ibuprofen (helps against uterine cramps - make procedure more comfortable), Valium (this relaxes your tubes) and I believe a couple of antibiotics. Remember your fallopian tubes are used to things coming out of it, not going into it.)

Antibiotics - Doxycycline  - provide coverage against most bacteria commonly found in the vagina.
                      Metronidazole - provides coverage for organisms resistant to doxycycline.

What does this tell us?

- For women with difficulties becoming pregnant, the test will tell us whether the uterine cavity is normal, whether the fallopian tubes are open, and will give us a general picture of the condition of those tubes.
- For women with abnormal menstrual bleeding, the test will help determine if there is a structural problem within the uterus such as fibroids, polyps or scar tissue present.

The risks?

- Any procedure has some risks to it. When something is placed into the uterus through he vagina na dcervix there is a small chance that bacteria may be introduced at the same time and in rare instance result in a infection to the uterus and tubes.  Fortunately, this risk is small and you will be given a short course of antibiotics as a preventive measure.  However, if you have persistent pain or a fever after the procedure it is import to notify your doctor so that they can aggressively treat you before any tubal damage occurs.

- Another risk is an allergic reaction to the dye and may experience problems ranging from a skin rash to severe difficulties in breathing.

(None of this happened to me - I was perfectly fine)