HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM (HSG)
DESCRIPTION:
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray procedure performed to evaluate your uterus and fallopian tubes. The procedure begins with a pelvic examination. Your doctor will place a catheter into your cervix. This catheter is used to instill a liquid into your uterus while a radiologist observes and documents the procedure using x-rays. If your fallopian tubes are open, the liquid travels through the tubes and spills freely into your abdominal cavity.
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an x-ray procedure performed to evaluate your uterus and fallopian tubes. The procedure begins with a pelvic examination. Your doctor will place a catheter into your cervix. This catheter is used to instill a liquid into your uterus while a radiologist observes and documents the procedure using x-rays. If your fallopian tubes are open, the liquid travels through the tubes and spills freely into your abdominal cavity.
PURPOSE:
The hysterosalpingogram allows your doctor to study the shape of your uterine cavity. Abnormalities, such as polyps, fibroid tumors, scar tissue, or congenital defects may be identified. The test also studies the inside of your fallopian tubes and whether or not they are open. The test cannot determine anything about your ovaries, as they are not visible by x-ray.
TIMING:
A hysterosalpingogram is usually performed during the first half of your menstrual cycle. The optimum timing of the procedure is after your menstrual flow has stopped, but before you are due to ovulate. This assures that you are not pregnant, though it is fine to attempt conception during the month the test is performed. In fact, the pregnancy rates are slightly higher in the months just following the procedure.
Hormone Analysis
The levels of certain hormones during specific points of your menstrual cycle give clues to the health and responsiveness of your uterus and ovaries. This detailed analysis will give insight for a diagnosis and method of treatment.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is done with the male partner to assess the count and morphology of the sperm in the sample he provides. Results from this test could diagnose a previously unknown male factor infertility which would play a critical role in determining the most effective method of treatment.
Ultrasonography
During your consult with your physician, a vaginal ultrasound will be performed to assess the condition of your uterus and ovaries. Depending on your history, a second follow up ultrasound may need to be done on day 2 or 3 of your cycle.
The hysterosalpingogram allows your doctor to study the shape of your uterine cavity. Abnormalities, such as polyps, fibroid tumors, scar tissue, or congenital defects may be identified. The test also studies the inside of your fallopian tubes and whether or not they are open. The test cannot determine anything about your ovaries, as they are not visible by x-ray.
TIMING:
A hysterosalpingogram is usually performed during the first half of your menstrual cycle. The optimum timing of the procedure is after your menstrual flow has stopped, but before you are due to ovulate. This assures that you are not pregnant, though it is fine to attempt conception during the month the test is performed. In fact, the pregnancy rates are slightly higher in the months just following the procedure.
Hormone Analysis
The levels of certain hormones during specific points of your menstrual cycle give clues to the health and responsiveness of your uterus and ovaries. This detailed analysis will give insight for a diagnosis and method of treatment.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is done with the male partner to assess the count and morphology of the sperm in the sample he provides. Results from this test could diagnose a previously unknown male factor infertility which would play a critical role in determining the most effective method of treatment.
Ultrasonography
During your consult with your physician, a vaginal ultrasound will be performed to assess the condition of your uterus and ovaries. Depending on your history, a second follow up ultrasound may need to be done on day 2 or 3 of your cycle.
ENDOMETRIAL BIOPSY
An endometrial biopsy involves taking a sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for
microscopic evaluation.
BACKGROUND:
Each month that a woman has a menstrual cycle, her ovary produces one or more
follicles, each of which contains an egg. After the egg is released from the ovary, the
follicle develops into a corpus luteum which produces the hormone progesterone.
Progesterone thickens and matures the endometrium in preparation for implantation of a
fertilized egg. By sampling the lining of the uterus, the effects of progesterone can be
evaluated. This, in turn, supplies information about the quality of follicular maturation
and ovulation. Improper maturation of the endometrium is known as luteal phase
deficiency. This has been implicated as a cause of infertility or miscarriage. The
endometrial biopsy does not screen for endometriosis.
SCHEDULING:
The endometrial biopsy is performed in the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle (the
time period following ovulation).
THE POSTCOITAL TEST (PCT)
PURPOSE:
SCHEDULING:
The length of your menstrual cycle, your basal body temperature chart pattern, or your urinary LH surge (as detected by an ovulation predictor kit) may determine the proper timing for the PCT. In general, the PCT should be performed on the days just prior to ovulation. Contact the office with the onset of your menstrual period to discuss appropriate scheduling of the test. If your menstrual period begins on the weekend, contact the office on Monday morning.
