Damaged, blocked, or partially obstructed fallopian tubes can impede egg transport from the ovaries to the fertilization site. This damage can be the result of congenital deformities, surgical scarring, or endometrial implants (endometriosis).

The HSG provides the fertility specialist with information about the fallopian tubes and the uterus.  A small tube (catheter) is passed through the vagina, the cervix, and into the uterus.  Radiopaque dye is injected through this tube into the uterus. Since it is radiopaque, the dye is clearly visible on x-ray examination.

The dye fills the uterus and flows back through the fallopian tubes. Sequential x-rays are taken and if there is a tubal obstruction, or complete blockage, the dye is stopped at that point and is seen on x-ray.  Likewise, abnormalities in the uterus such as fibroids and polyps can often be seen.

The HSG is an outpatient procedure accompanied by minimal discomfort.

The hysteroscope is a small round “telescope like” device that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus.  The uterus is filled with carbon dioxide or another media causing it to expand.  The physician can often clearly visualize the inside of the uterus and see conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or congenital uterine abnormalities.

The uterus is filled and expanded with saline solution using a catheter passed through the vagina and cervix.  The vaginal probe ultrasound is then inserted and abnormalities such as fibroids and polyps can often be seen. 

Ultrasound has many uses in the fertility evaluation, especially the vaginal probe ultrasound.  Using the vaginal probe, sound waves are “bounced” from the transponder and picked up by a receiver creating a “pattern”. The internal organs and structures are seen on ultrasound as “shadows”.

Vaginal probe ultrasound is a “mainstay” of assisted reproductive technologies (IVF)because it allows the fertility specialist and/or the ultrasound technician to visualize follicular development on the ovaries.  The number and size of the follicles are determined and this information is used in FSH dosage adjustments. Ultrasound is also used to measure the width of the endometrial lining and to guide egg retrieval. Ultrasound has many other uses including documentation of the fetal sac, visualization of the fetus, scanning abdominal organs, and many others.

Fertility Tests