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Tracy Morris On:
When Is An HSG Necessary?
Question - When Is An HSG Necessary?
"I've had 2 day surgeries to remove scar tissue from my tubes; now they want to do a dye test on me. I've had it done before -- it's very painful. Is there anything else I can do besides that? This was done a few years ago, and they said they removed all scar tissue -- please help!"
Response - The "dye test" that you're referring to is called a hysterosalpingogram, or HSG for short. Yes, it is known to be rather uncomfortable, and for some women, very painful. While you mention that you've had surgery already to correct for tubal blockage, you do not say how long you've been trying unsuccessfully to conceive. It sounds as if it's been awhile.
In general, HSG's are necessary when other tests for other causes of female infertility, such as hormonal and ovulatory issues, are turning out normal. Additionally, I recommend that any woman who is considering an HSG be sure to have her male partner go through a semen analysis (SA) first, since a semen analysis, while emotional uncomfortable, is much less invasive and not physically painful. If the SA is also good, and other tests are normal, then an HSG will probably be the next step.
In short, an HSG is the best way to determine whether or not your ovulated eggs are able to travel to the uterus. If the path is blocked, then it's highly unlikely that the eggs will be met by sperm, even with artificial insemination.
Regarding the fact that you were told all scar tissue was removed -- unfortunately, scar tissue can return. Additionally, depending on the cause of your scar tissue, adhesions can develop. Remember, your fallopian tubes are about as wide as a strand of spaghetti, so there's not a lot of room for error there. It only takes a small amount of blockage to create a fertility barrier.
So, whether or not you decide to go forward with an HSG depends on the trust you have in your doc's suggestion. If you are unsure about the reasons for it, ask!
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{Disclaimer: Every effort is made to present accurate and reliable information, but this column is intended to provide general information, not direct psychological or medical advice to the person posing the question. Use of such information is voluntary and should only be undertaken after independent review of its accuracy, completeness, efficacy and appropriateness to your specific situation. If medical or psychological advice is needed, seek the services of a competent and licensed psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, or physician.}
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