What’s an HSG and the purpose behind it?
An HSG, or hysterosalpingogram, is a radiologic test that evaluates the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. A small catheter is inserted into the uterus during a speculum exam, and clear liquid is injected to fill the cavity and the tubes. Several x-ray images are taken to document the findings. Recipient women may undergo this screening study before their treatment cycle to ensure that there are no abnormalities of the cavity, such as a submucosal fibroid, large polyp, or uterine septum that would affect the chance of the embryo implanting and growing well. If the HSG identifies a dilated, distally occluded fallopian tube (called a hydrosalpinx), the RE will usually recommend that the damaged tube be removed or proximally ligated (to tie or bind with a ligature or suture.) by laparoscopy before proceeding with IVF. A hydrosalpinx that is not ligated can leak tubal fluid into the uterine cavity, and this may impair the implantation of the embryo.
