Hysterosalpingogram

This is an X-ray examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes.
The examination will determine what (if any) the problems are with the fallopian tubes and allow your Doctor/Consultant to decide on the best treatment for you.
We realise that this is for many women a sensitive and difficult examination. We make every effort to ensure complete privacy in as relaxed an atmosphere as possible.

Risks
In order to make an informed decision and give your consent, you need to be aware of the possible risks. X-rays are commonly used and generally safe. X-rays can have harmful effects on living cells and therefore the radiation dose per exam is kept as low as is reasonably practicable. Talk to your doctor or radiologist/ advanced practitioner if you require more information.

Despite the fact that all procedures are carried out using sterile equipment and aseptic procedure, there is a small risk of infection (4%) following the examination; in particular patients who have had previous pelvic infections. On the day of the examination it is important that you let the radiographer/radiologist know:

• If you have ever received treatment for a pelvic infection; in which case you may be prescribed a course of antibiotics following the examination.

You may be given antibiotics depending on your previous history and also the examination findings.

If you require any further information, please ask the radiologist/radiographer before the examination.

On the Day of the Procedure

We will welcome you to the Imaging Department and check your details.

• On arrival your identity will be checked and you will be asked to change into a hospital gown.
• You will be escorted to the X-ray room and asked to lie on the X-ray table.
• You will meet the radiologist or advanced practitioner radiographer who will perform the examination.
• The procedure is similar to a smear test. A speculum is used (the same instrument as in a smear test).
• A small tube will be inserted into the neck of the uterus; this may feel a little uncomfortable. If you do feel any pain, please tell the staff.
• A contrast agent (a liquid that shows up on X-rays) will be passed through the tube and a series of X-rays will be taken.
• The tube and speculum will then be removed.

The examination takes between 15 – 20 mins, but be prepared to be in the department for 30 – 40 mins.

You may like to take some simple oral analgesia – such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if suitable for you (follow the instructions on the pack) – as you would for a headache 30 mins prior to the procedure.

Your Normal Medicines

You can continue with your normal medication.

After your Investigation

• You should feel well enough to go home and return to work.
• You may experience minor bleeding (similar to a period) for 1 or 2 days.
• You may experience some cramping pains, similar to period pain. For pain relief, paracetamol or ibuprofen may be taken if suitable for you – follow the instructions on the pack.

If you have severe pain or heavy bleeding which is not normal for you, please contact your GP, explaining about your recent hysterosalpingogram.

During the few days following the examination if you have any of the following, contact your GP explaining about your recent hysterosalpingogram.

• Ongoing abdominal pain;
• Temperature;
• Vaginal discharge /odour, which is not normal for you.

If your symptoms or condition worsens, or if you are concerned about anything, please call your GP, 111, or 999.

When will you get your results?

You will not receive the results of this examination on the day of your appointment. The results will be sent to the Doctor/Consultant who requested the examination.

Contact details

If you have any specific concerns that you feel have not been answered and need explaining, please contact the following.

• Department Alexandra Radiology Department 01527 512766
• Department Worcester Royal Hospital 01905 768934
• Kidderminster Treatment Centre 01562 513088

Other information
The following internet websites contain information that you may find useful.

• www.worcsacute.nhs.uk
  Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust
• http://www.patient.info
• www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
  On-line health encyclopaedia

If your symptoms or condition worsens, or if you are concerned about anything, please call your GP, 111, or 999.

Patient Experience
We know that being admitted to hospital can be a difficult and unsettling time for you and your loved ones. If you have any questions or concerns, please do speak with a member of staff on the ward or in the relevant department who will do their best to answer your questions and reassure you. 

Feedback
Feedback is really important and useful to us – it can tell us where we are working well and where improvements can be made. There are lots of ways you can share your experience with us including completing our Friends and Family Test – cards are available and can be posted on all wards, departments and clinics at our hospitals. We value your comments and feedback and thank you for taking the time to share this with us.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
If you have any concerns or questions about your care, we advise you to talk with the nurse in charge or the department manager in the first instance as they are best placed to answer any questions or resolve concerns quickly. If the relevant member of staff is unable to help resolve your concern, you can contact the PALS Team. We offer informal help, advice or support about any aspect of hospital services & experiences.

Our PALS team will liaise with the various departments in our hospitals on your behalf, if you feel unable to do so, to resolve your problems and where appropriate refer to outside help.

If you are still unhappy you can contact the Complaints Department, who can investigate your concerns. You can make a complaint orally, electronically or in writing and we can advise and guide you through the complaints procedure.

How to contact PALS:
Telephone Patient Services: 0300 123 1732 or via email at: wah-tr.PALS@nhs.net

Opening times:
The PALS telephone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.00pm. Please be aware that you may need to leave a voicemail message, but we aim to return your call within one working day.

If you are unable to understand this leaflet, please communicate with a member of staff.