What Is the Test Called That Checks Your Fallopian Tubes?

The test designed to check the function of the fallopian tubes is called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). The most common reason for performing an HSG is for treatment of infertility, to determine if the woman's fallopian tubes are open.

Procedure

• Radioactive dye is injected through the vagina and cervix into the uterine cavity. If the subsequent X-ray detects that dye spilled into the abdominal cavity, the tubes are open and working.

Location

• The HSG is usually done as an outpatient procedure in a radiology department at a hospital, although some reproductive endocrinologists are able to perform HSGs in the office.

Blockage

• If the tubes are blocked, the HSG will help the doctor determine where. Moderate blockage can sometimes be resolved just by pushing the dye through the tubes. There is usually a modest increase in fertility for at least three months following an HSG, even if the tubes were open beforehand.

Uterine Abnormalities

• Another function of an HSG is to determine if there are uterine abnormalities, like fibroids, scar tissue or deformity of the uterus.

Preparation

• Before the procedure, you should take an anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen, to help ease the discomfort of the procedure. Heavy cramping can occur during and after the HSG, so it is advisable to take the day off and use over-the-counter pain medications as needed.