Radiology
Your consultant has requested that you attend for a hysterosalpingogram. This leaflet is designed to explain what the examination involves. The examination will be carried out in the x-ray department at The James Cook University Hospital.
If you are unable to attend, please contact us immediately to rearrange. This will allow us to use the appointment for another patient.
What is a hysterosalpinogram (HSG)?
This is an x-ray procedure performed to see the uterus and fallopian tubes and show the presence of any blockages.
Preparation for the examination
- You will need to ring the x-ray department on 01642 282639 on the first day of your period. This is so the correct appointment can be made for you.
- After starting your period DO NOT have sexual intercourse during or after. This is to make certain there is no chance of pregnancy when the examination is performed.
- Take your normal pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen as instructed, 1 ½ hours before your test.
What the examination involves?
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown. You may bring your own dressing gown and slippers to wear if you wish. You will need to empty your bladder before the examination. The advanced practitioner radiographer will explain what will happen and answer any questions you may have.
Your partner is welcome to stay with you throughout the examination, if you wish. You will lie on the x-ray table on your back with the x-ray camera above you.
The advanced practitioner radiographer will place a speculum in the vagina (like a smear test) and a fine tube placed into the womb. A clear solution of x-ray dye is slowly injected to visualise the womb and fallopian tubes using x-rays.
Does it hurt?
Some women may experience period-like cramps during and after the examination. This can be helped by taking your normal pain relief for example, paracetamol, ibuprofen.
How long does it take?
The procedure takes about 20 minutes. If you attend early there is no guarantee that you will be seen before your appointment time.
What happens 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 such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce these symptoms and it is advised that you use sanitary towels rather than tampons. Please refrain from sexual intercourse for 48 hours.
Is there anything I need to tell the staff?
If you have special needs or disabilities, please contact the x-ray department on 01642 282639
When will I get the result?
The advanced practitioner radiographer will examine your x-rays and send a report to your gynaecologist who will discuss the results with you at your next appointment.
What about transport to the hospital?
Transport has not been arranged for this appointment. If an ambulance is required, please contact your GP at least 48 hours before the appointment date. All car parks are pay and display.
Radiation dose and risk
X-rays use ionising radiation which can cause cell damage that may, after many years or decades, turn cancerous. The risk of this happening is very small compared to the normal lifetime risk of developing cancer which is 1 in 2. We are also all exposed to background radiation every day.
The risk of long-term effects is considered when the healthcare team decide whether someone needs an x-ray examination and radiation doses are kept as low as possible. For this examination radiation dose levels are typically equivalent to around 6 to 12 months of background radiation. The associated risk is less than 1 in 10,000 – Very Low.
Contact us
If you require further information please contact us on:
Telephone: 01642 282639 (Mon to Fri, 9am – 5pm)
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]