Hysterosalpingography, also called uterosalpingography, is an x-ray examination of a woman's uterus and fallopian tubes that uses a special form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and a contrast material.
Hysterosalpingography is primarily used to examine women who have difficulty becoming pregnant by allowing the radiologist to evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus, the openness of the fallopian tubes, and any scarring within the peritoneal cavity.
The procedure can be used to investigate repeated miscarriages that result from congenital abnormalities of the uterus and to determine the presence and severity of these abnormalities, including:
- tumor masses or adhesions
- uterine fibroids
Hysterosalpingography is also used to monitor the effects of tubal surgery, including:
- tubal ligation
- the closure of the fallopian tubes in a sterilization procedure and a sterilization reversal
- the re-opening of the fallopian tubes following a sterilization or disease-related obstruction
Preparation
Please eat and drink as you would normally before this exam as it helps our radiologist visualize the area better. Also, please take some ibuprofen before the test (such as Advil) to help you relax and to reduce the chance of uterine cramping.
More information about this test can be found on the Web at WebMD