Radiology Department
You may experience mild menstrual-like cramps and dizziness during and after the examination. You may have cramping and light bleeding for a day or so after the procedure. This is normal. You may take pain relief medication such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to reduce these symptoms and it is advised that you use sanitary towels rather than tampons.
Risks
Complications from a HSG are rare. Possible risks include:
- Infection: Organisms are already present in the vagina. They flow upward when the dye is injected. This can cause an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Although a special solution is used to clean the vagina, you should understand that it is not possible to kill all organisms.
- Allergic Reaction: You may be allergic to the dye used for the HSG. If you develop hives, shortness of breath or a rash you should contact your GP as soon as possible and explain about having had an HSG.
- Flow of dye into the blood vessels: On occasion the dye may flow into the blood vessels. Very rarely this can become life threatening.
- Perforation: Very rarely injury to the uterus may occur.
It is normal to experience mild pain and light bleeding. Most patients have no problems following an HSG. However, it is not normal to experience sever stomach pain, heavy bleeding or fever (a temperature over 38ºC). These symptoms can occur in the first few days after the procedure. You should contact your GP if any of these symptoms occur.
Contact us
If you require further information please contact the Interventional Radiology Department:
Telephone: 01642 282639
Email: [email protected]
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]