Both Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) tests and Hysteroscopy are required to know the reason for the delay in getting pregnant or abnormal menstrual period. But often, the patient's primary concern is knowing how painful these procedures are. Do they involve any complications? Which one is more painful, HSG or Hysteroscopy?
To answer these common questions, we'll first understand both the procedure and the risks associated with them.
What is the Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) test?
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG Test) is a simple procedure that uses a special kind of X-ray to evaluate the reproductive organs, such as the fallopian tubes and uterus, for any abnormalities. The iodine-based dye is inserted through the cervix, followed by a series of X-rays. If there is an abnormality in the shape of the uterus, it will be outlined. The HSG test doesn't take long, and you can go home within an hour.
Risks Associated with HSG
HSG is generally a very safe procedure. However, in a few cases, there may be some complications, such as if your tubes are blocked, the iodine-based dye can cause pressure which may cause discomfort and pain. In other cases, it may cause -
- Discomfort if you have an allergic reaction to the dye
- Pelvic infection or injury to your uterus
- Mild cramps and light spotting
- Vaginal bleeding
- fever
Some discomfort and cramps are normal, but if it gets severe or discomfort seems to increase after the test, contact your fertility doctor immediately.
What is Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is also one such operative and diagnostic procedure that allows the surgeon to look inside the cervix and uterus to diagnose and treat causes of abnormal bleeding and other related dysfunctions.
The surgeon uses an instrument called Hysteroscope, a small-diameter device with a light on the end which is inserted through your vagina into the uterus to examine the cervix, take a tissue sample, prevent bleeding, or remove polyps or fibroid tumors.
Risks associated with Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is also generally a safe procedure, but as a medical procedure, risks are always there. You may feel -
- Heavy Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the cervix, uterus, or bladder
- Mild nausea
- Uterine perforation
- Intrauterine scarring
- Fever
HSG or Hysteroscopy: Which One is Safe?
Based on your medical condition and reproductive health issues, your fertility doctor may recommend either Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or Hysteroscopy. HSG may be the first step to knowing what's happening inside the uterus. In contrast, the Hysteroscopy procedure gives more of a picture and better look inside the uterus and fallopian tube.
During hysteroscopy, either liquid or gas will also be inserted through the hysteroscope to clear away any blood or mucus or to have a better view of the uterus. If a doctor finds that surgery is needed, another surgical device will also be inserted through the hysteroscope tube to perform the surgery.
So, Hysteroscopy can be more complicated and involves more risks as compared to simple X-ray tests in HSG. But still, it is essential to know the HSG showed a normal uterine shape, but a hysteroscopy showed abnormalities that can be diagnosed and corrected.
During both surgeries, you may feel nervous, so take a deep breath and relax. Also, if you have trouble conceiving and abnormal menstrual periods, you may talk to a fertility specialist at Crysta IVF as you may need In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. Consult with our fertility experts to know the cost of IVF In Delhi NCR.
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