What will hsg show

If the contrast fluid was evenly distributed in the pelvis, we could also imply that there were no significant adhesions, or scar tissue, around the tubes. While this was a good test, it had some disadvantages.

First of all, the actual uterus and tubes do not show up on x-ray — only the contrast fluid shows up, so you would not see fibroids or ovarian cysts. It also involved exposure to a small dose of radiation and was inconvenient, as it had to be scheduled in a radiology suite. The ultrasound version sono-HSG or sonohysterogram is sometimes often referred to simply as the FemVue, the brand name of a device used to perform the procedure. This version of the procedure is performed in the office and in an exam room with equipment designed specifically around the gynecologic exam, which can make it more comfortable for the patient.

It does not involve x-ray or contrast fluid which can rarely cause allergic reactions but instead uses only sterile water or saline and air bubbles. With 3-D ultrasound equipment, we can get an excellent view of the uterus itself as well as the interior cavity and manipulate the image on the screen to get a more complete picture.

It will also show the ovaries and any cysts on them. While the tubes are difficult to see with ultrasound alone, the addition of air bubbles to the water allows us to track the bubbles through the tubes and document that they are open.

It is less effective in testing for adhesions around the tubes than the x-ray test, but for the initial screening of the pelvis, it is an excellent test. The HSG test is mostly used to see if the fallopian tubes are open.

It can also be used to check if there congenital uterine anomalies , fibroid tumors, polyps, or uterine scar tissue. Endometriosis is not well seen on either the x-ray or the ultrasound version of the HSG, but if there are cysts of endometriosis tissue in the ovaries called endometriomas , the ultrasound procedure will generally be able to detect those. As mentioned previously, if there is scar tissue from prior surgeries or possibly from severe endometriosis, the x-ray test may be better at detecting that.

Of course, the best test for endometriosis is a laparoscopy, which involves surgery and is best reserved for patients whose symptoms are highly indicative of endometriosis, or who have a history of prior pelvic surgeries.

There is absolutely no preparation needed for the HSG test. Always try and get a copy of your films at the time of the test so that your doctor can look at them. Usually the ordering physician only gets a report from the radiology facility and sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.

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Here are some healthy habits that can boost your chances of conceiving. Request Appointment. Video: HSG test for female infertility. Products and services. Blocked fallopian tubes or an abnormal uterine cavity may cause infertility. Thank you for Subscribing Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Please try again. Something went wrong on our side, please try again.

Show references Hoffman BL, et al. Techniques used for imaging in gynecology. In: Williams Gynecology. New York, N. Accessed Oct. Lee SI, et al. Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic.