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A hysterosalpingogram is usually done as part of an infertility evaluation for a woman of childbearing age. The physician introduces a speculum into the vaginal cavity to visualize the cervix. The cervix is cleaned with a Betadine preparation and then a thin catheter is inserted through the cervical canal into the endometrial cavity. A small balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated in the endometrial cavity to provide a good seal. Under fluoroscopic observation, the physician injects a small amount of water-soluble contrast (15 to 20 cc) which fills the endometrial cavity of the uterus and both fallopian tubes. The tubal anatomy and patency can be assessed. Normally, the tubes are slender and spill freely into the peritoneal cavity.
This exam must be performed between the 7th and 10th day of the patient’s menstrual cycle. (Day one is the day menstruation begins.) There is no special preparation necessary for this procedure, however, patients should abstain from sexual intercourse from the onset of menstruation until the completion of the exam.
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