Why does hsg cause bleeding

How long does the test take? What happens after the test? When should you call for help? Where can you learn more? Top of the page. What is it? An HSG is done to: Check for a blocked fallopian tube. Find problems in the uterus, such as an abnormal shape or structure.

Look for an injury, polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or a foreign object in the uterus. Schedule this test at a time when you are unlikely to have gotten pregnant without knowing it. The best time is soon after your period ends and before your ovary releases an egg ovulates. It's usually around the middle of your cycle if you are having periods.

You may want to bring a sanitary pad to wear after the test. That's because some of the dye may leak from your vagina after the test. You may also have some slight bleeding. You'll be asked to take off your clothes below the waist and drape a gown around your waist.

You will need to empty your bladder. You will lie on your back on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. You may take ibuprofen to help with cramps or pain during the test.

You may also get a sedative to help you relax. However, some women may experience cramps for several hours. These symptoms can be greatly reduced by taking medications used for menstrual cramps before the procedure or when they occur. Women should be prepared to have a family member or friend drive them home after the procedure in the event that they are experiencing cramping. It is controversial whether this procedure enhances fertility. Some studies show a slight increase in fertility lasting about 3 months after a normal HSG.

However, most doctors perform HSG only for diagnostic reasons. HSG is considered a very safe procedure. If your tubes are blocked, your doctor will likely recommend either a surgical procedure to directly view the tubes laparoscopy or to bypass the tubes and perform in vitro fertilization IVF.

This is a complex decision that should be discussed with your doctor. For more information, please see the ASRM booklet Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy and fact sheet What do I need to know about conceiving after tubal surgery?

Not all uterine based fertility problems can be visualized with an HSG. In other words, the HSG showed a normal uterine shape, but a hysteroscopy showed abnormalities. Also, endometriosis can't be diagnosed with an HSG. Only an exploratory laparoscopy can rule out or diagnose endometriosis. If the dye shows an abnormally shaped uterus, or if the dye does not flow freely from the fallopian tubes, there may be a problem.

The blockage appears to be right where the fallopian tube and uterus meet. If this happens, the doctor may repeat the test another time or order a different test to confirm.

An HSG can show that the tubes are blocked, but it can't explain why. Your doctor may order further testing, including exploratory laparoscopy or a hysteroscopy. These procedures can both help investigate the issue and possibly correct the problem.

An HSG is a generally safe procedure. Still, there many people are concerned about safety and potential risks of an HSG test. This is more common if you've already had an infection or you're at risk for pelvic inflammatory disease PID. If you have a history of PID, sexually transmitted infection, or abdominal surgery such as an appendectomy , your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for the procedure as an extra precaution.

Another risk is fainting during or after the test. If you feel dizzy after the exam, tell your doctor. It may be better for you to remain lying down until you feel less woozy. A rare but potentially serious risk is iodine allergy. If you are allergic to iodine or shellfish, tell your doctor before the test.

If you have any itching or swelling after the test, tell your doctor. Usually, when you have an x-ray, the first thing the technician does is cover your pelvic area. During an HSG, the x-ray is aimed right at the pelvis. Be reassured that an HSG involves a very low amount of radiation.

It has not been found to cause any unwanted effects, even if you get pregnant later that cycle. However, an HSG should not be done during pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor before you have the test. It's okay to feel nervous before and during an HSG exam. Deep, relaxed breathing through the procedure can help. Also don't be afraid to tell the nurse or doctor that you're nervous.

The nurse may even offer to hold your hand. Accept their support, which really can help you feel better. Overall, the procedure is quick, and for some it's completely painless. If you will feel pain, in most cases it's short-lived and light.

Alert your doctor if this isn't the case, and they will take quick steps to relieve pressure and pain as quickly as possible. Before your exam, also ask if your doctor recommends taking a painkiller. Get diet and wellness tips to help your kids stay healthy and happy.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Updated August UCLA Health. Recurrent pregnancy loss. Bradley LD, Falcone T. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellFamily. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

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