HSG not HCG.
I wish this made my HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) rise.
Hysterosalpingography, or HSG, is an X-ray test to outline the internal shape of the uterus and show whether the fallopian tubes are blocked.
In HSG, a thin tube is threaded through the vagina and cervix. A substance known as contrast material is injected into the uterus.
A series of X-rays, or fluoroscopy, follows the dye, which appears white on X-ray, as it moves into the uterus and then into the tubes. If there is an abnormality in the shape of the uterus, it will be outlined.
If the tube is open, the dye gradually fills it. The dye spills into the pelvic cavity, where the body resorbs it.
Source - https://www.mayoclinic.org/hsg-test/vid-20084751
This was my first investigation regarding why I wasn’t falling pregnant.
It did come back all clear, the contrast material flowed fine into my uterus, fallopian tubes and spilled out into my abdominal cavity.
There were 2 options that followed the contrast dye to flush my uterus and tubes:
With water
With oil.
Essentially the biggest difference between these options were that studies had shown an increase in conception for 3 months following the HSG with the use of oil.
On inspection of my cervix it was noted that I did have some scar tissue.
For my specialist to be able to thread the catheter into my uterus she unfortunately had to clamp my cervix open which with no anaesthetic wasn’t the most comfortable.
I had some immediate cramping, probably close to BAD period pain, a warm sensation in my lower stomach and bloating.
I did feel quite lightheaded after this procedure but think it was possibly due to the clamping of my cervix and some anxiety from my previous LLETZ complications.
Following on from having this done I did experience some cramping for a few hours on and off and bleeding for a few days - but this was expected after what was required.
I did feel very hopeful after the HSG. I really thought I would have fallen pregnant in the months following but it wasn’t meant to be.
Looking back I probably would have had water flushed through not oil but JV and I decided at the time that would we do anything and use whatever would give us the greatest chances of being able to fall pregnant naturally.
