Ask women in any fertility support group about the HSG, and you will hear everything from “it was fine” to “worst pain of my life.” Knowing what to expect makes a real difference.
What an HSG Is
A hysterosalpingogram is an X-ray test. A thin tube is passed through the cervix and a dye is gently introduced into the womb. X-ray pictures show the shape of the womb cavity and whether the dye flows freely through the fallopian tubes.
What It Can Show
- Whether one or both tubes are open — see Why It Is Time to Unlearn What You Have Been Told About Tubes
- Swollen, fluid-filled tubes (hydrosalpinx)
- Fibroids, polyps or scar tissue changing the shape of the cavity — see Asherman’s Syndrome
- Differences in the shape of the womb itself
What It Cannot Do
An HSG does not assess the ovaries, your egg reserve, or how well the tubes function — only whether dye passes through. A tube can occasionally appear blocked because it went into spasm during the test. If one result does not fit the rest of your picture, it is fair to ask whether it should be repeated or confirmed another way.
Timing
It is usually done after your period ends and before you ovulate — commonly between days 6 and 11 of the cycle — so there is no chance of an early pregnancy. Clinics may ask you to avoid unprotected sex from the start of your period until the test.
Making It Easier
- Ask whether you can take a simple painkiller around 30–60 minutes beforehand.
- Ask the clinic whether they recommend antibiotics, especially if you have a history of infection.
- Bring a sanitary pad — some dye and spotting afterwards is normal.
- Bring someone to take you home if you can.
- Breathe slowly through the cramping; it usually passes within minutes.
Seek Help Afterwards If
You develop fever, worsening pain, or smelly discharge in the days after — these can be signs of infection.
Got your HSG report and unsure what it means? Send it to us.
Related Reading
At Ohemaa Fertile Home, we provide guided herbal fertility support rooted in three generations of traditional knowledge. We serve women across Ghana, Nigeria, and the diaspora. Reach out to us on WhatsApp for a free, confidential consultation.
