If you’ve started exploring fertility tests, you may have come across the term HSG and wondered what it means. In simple words, HSG full form is “Hysterosalpingogram.” It’s an X-ray test that shows whether your uterus and fallopian tubes are healthy and open. Doctors often suggest an HSG early in a fertility work-up because blocked tubes are a common reason for trouble conceiving.
This easy guide explains what HSG is, why it’s done, what happens during the test, how to prepare, possible risks, and what your results could mean. If you’re comparing centres and looking for the best IVF centre in Kolkata, understanding HSG will help you ask the right questions and make calmer, clearer decisions.
What is an HSG?
An HSG (Hysterosalpingogram) is a quick X-ray test. A thin tube is placed into the cervix, and a special dye (contrast) is gently passed into the uterus and fallopian tubes. As the dye moves, X-ray images track its flow:
- If the dye flows through and spills into the pelvic cavity: the tubes are open.
- If the dye stops or pools: it suggests a blockage or narrowing.
Because the fallopian tubes are the route that sperm and egg use to meet, open tubes matter for natural conception.
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Why do doctors recommend an HSG?
Your doctor may suggest an HSG to:
- Check if your tubes are open or blocked.
- Look for shapes or growths in the uterus (like fibroids or polyps) that might affect implantation.
- Review the outcome of past procedures (for example, after a tubal ligation or a reversal).
- Plan next steps, like a follow-up ultrasound, a hysteroscopy, or moving straight to treatments such as IUI or IVF.
Tip: If you’re already speaking with a clinic (for example, while shortlisting the best IVF centre in Kolkata), ask whether they use gentle, low-pressure dye techniques and how they explain results the same day.
When is the HSG done?
Timing matters. The HSG is usually done after your period ends but before ovulation, roughly day 7 to day 10 of your cycle. This lowers the chance that you’re pregnant during the test and avoids heavy bleeding days.
You shouldn’t have an HSG if you:
- Might be pregnant
- Have a current pelvic infection
How to prepare for HSG?
- Pain relief: Take an over-the-counter painkiller (if your doctor says it’s safe) about an hour before the test. This helps with cramping.
- Antibiotics: Some doctors prescribe a short course to reduce infection risk, follow their advice.
- Food & drink: You can usually eat and drink normally.
- Allergies: Tell your doctor about any dye/iodine allergies or previous reactions.
- Lift & ride: Arrange a lift home if you think cramps might make driving uncomfortable.
- Questions: Write down any doubts you want to ask—being prepared reduces stress.
What happens during the HSG (step by step)
- Position: You lie on the X-ray table like you would for a pelvic exam.
- Speculum: A speculum is inserted to view the cervix.
- Cleaning & catheter: The cervix is cleaned. A soft, thin tube (catheter) is placed through the cervix into the uterus.
- Dye injection: The speculum is removed. The doctor slowly injects the contrast dye while X-rays (fluoroscopy) capture images.
- Images: You may be asked to change position slightly so the radiologist can see both tubes clearly.
- Finish: The catheter is removed, and you can rest for a few minutes.
Time taken: The actual dye part is usually under 5 minutes; the whole visit may take around 30–45 minutes.
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Will it hurt?
Most people feel period-like cramps when the dye goes in, especially if a tube is tight or blocked. The discomfort is usually mild to moderate and settles in a few minutes to hours. A simple painkiller (as advised by your doctor) usually helps.
After the test
- You may have light spotting and some sticky discharge (dye coming out). Use a sanitary pad.
- Mild cramps for a few hours are common.
- Most people can return to normal activities the same day.
Call your doctor urgently if you have:
- Fever or chills
- Severe pain that doesn’t ease
- Heavy bleeding
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Fainting or vomiting
These may be signs of infection or a reaction (both of which are rare).
Are there risks?
An HSG uses a small amount of radiation, which is considered safe for this test. Rare risks include:
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to the dye
- Uterine injury (very uncommon)
Your care team will screen you to keep risks low.
Understanding your results
Your doctor will explain what the images show and what to do next:
- Both tubes open, uterus normal: You may try naturally or proceed with options like timed intercourse or IUI.
- One tube blocked: Pregnancy is still possible, but your doctor may discuss clearing a minor blockage, trying IUI, or moving to IVF, depending on your age and overall fertility profile.
- Both tubes blocked or significant uterine issues: Your doctor may suggest further tests (like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy) or recommend IVF, which bypasses the tubes.
Can HSG improve fertility?
Some people notice an improvement in fertility within the first 3–6 months after an HSG, especially when an oil-based dye is used. This is sometimes referred to as “tubal flushing.” It may help wash away tiny mucus plugs. However, it’s best to see HSG as a diagnostic test with a possible bonus, not a guaranteed treatment.
HSG, IVF and “multiple pregnancies”
An HSG itself does not cause multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets). Multiple pregnancies are more commonly linked to fertility treatments where multiple eggs may be released or more than one embryo is transferred (for example, in IVF). If you’re worried about this, talk to your doctor about single embryo transfer policies and how they aim to keep pregnancy safe for both mother and baby.
Choosing where to test (and treat)
If you’re comparing clinics, say, while shortlisting the best IVF centre in Kolkata or in your own city, use this quick filter:
- Clear, same-day HSG reporting in simple language
- Experienced team (radiologist + fertility specialist)
- Gentle technique (low-pressure dye, good pain management)
- Sensible next-step planning (no pushy sales)
- Transparent costs for tests and treatments
- Strong support for emotional well-being
A good centre won’t just “do the test”; they’ll explain your choices calmly and help you build a plan that fits your age, results, budget, and comfort.
Conclusion
The HSG test (Hysterosalpingogram) is a simple yet powerful fertility test that helps doctors check for blocked fallopian tubes and other uterine issues. While it may cause mild discomfort, it gives clear answers that guide the right treatment plan. If you are considering advanced care, choosing the best IVF centre in Kolkata can make a big difference. With the right support, even challenges like blocked tubes or multiple pregnancies can be managed safely, bringing you closer to your dream of parenthood.
Hi, I’m Dev Kirtonia, Founder & CEO of Dev Library. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
