Back to: HSG method
Hysterosalpingography, better known as HSG, is one of the most important diagnostic methods in modern gynecology, especially when it comes to examining the causes of sterility. This procedure allows doctors a detailed look at the anatomy of a woman's reproductive organs, providing information that a classic ultrasound scan often cannot reveal. Thanks to its accuracy and relative speed of performance, HSG is considered the gold standard in the initial stage of infertility testing, helping couples to reach adequate therapy and the desired offspring faster.
If you need an HGS diagnostic method, on this page you can find a list of gynecological offices in Belgrade that also offer this type of examination.
HSG is a radiological procedure that examines the inside of the uterine cavity and the patency of the fallopian tubes with the help of X-ray imaging and a special contrast medium. During the procedure, the doctor injects a thin stream of contrast through the cervix. As the fluid fills the uterus and passes through the fallopian tubes, an image is taken that clearly shows any irregularities. The intervention itself lasts a short time, usually around 15 minutes, and can be performed under local or short-term general anesthesia, depending on the pain tolerance threshold and the doctor's recommendation.
The main goal of HSG is to determine the existence of mechanical obstacles that prevent the meeting of the egg and the sperm. The doctor prescribes this examination in order to exclude or confirm blockage of the fallopian tubes, the existence of polyps, fibroids or congenital anomalies of the shape of the uterus. Besides its diagnostic value, HSG also has a therapeutic effect. Namely, under the pressure of the contrast, the fallopian tubes are often washed out and small growths are removed, which significantly increases the chances of natural conception in the months immediately after the intervention.
In order to perform the procedure safely and avoid the risk of infection, thorough preparation is necessary. The patient must have regular vaginal and cervical smears (chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma) not older than one month. Also, a blood test (sedimentation and CRP) is often required, which confirms that there is no active inflammatory process in the body. The examination is exclusively performed in the first part of the cycle, usually between the 7th and 12th day, in order to eliminate any suspicion of pregnancy and ensure optimal visibility of the uterus.