Should I Consider Hysterosalpingography for Fertility Boost?

Can I try a hysterosalpingography?

Hello, Director Cao.
I have been married for nearly a year without using contraception and have not conceived.
Six months after marriage, I underwent one cycle of artificial insemination, which was unsuccessful.
My husband is not very proactive about having children, but I really hope to have my own child.
I would like to ask you, at my age, do I still have a chance of conceiving naturally? I have heard that the chances of pregnancy are higher in the 2 to 3 months following a hysterosalpingography.
Do you think I should give it a try? I have also heard that tubal obstruction tends to occur in younger populations.
What is your opinion on this? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions!

Kaori, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/18

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the general definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse.
In cases of infertility, both partners should undergo examinations at a gynecology clinic, including semen analysis, hysterosalpingography, ovulation testing, and hormonal blood tests, among others.
At this age, there is still a chance of natural conception, although the probability decreases.
It is certainly advisable to undergo hysterosalpingography to confirm whether the fallopian tubes are patent.
If there are still concerns, consulting a regular gynecologist is recommended.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/12/18

More Info

When considering fertility and the potential need for hysterosalpingography (HSG), it's essential to understand both the procedure and its implications for your reproductive health. HSG is a specialized X-ray procedure used to evaluate the condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the uterine cavity and taking X-rays to see if the dye flows freely through the fallopian tubes, indicating they are open and functioning properly.
Given that you have been trying to conceive for nearly a year without success, and considering your previous experience with artificial insemination, it may be prudent to explore HSG. This procedure can provide valuable information about your reproductive anatomy. If there are blockages in the fallopian tubes, it could significantly hinder your chances of natural conception.
Regarding your age, fertility does decline with age, but many women still conceive naturally in their 30s and even early 40s. The key factors influencing your chances include the health of your eggs, the regularity of your menstrual cycles, and the overall health of both you and your partner. If you have regular cycles and no known issues with ovulation, there is still a good chance for natural conception.

You mentioned that you have heard that undergoing HSG can increase the chances of conception in the following months. Some studies suggest that the procedure may help clear minor blockages or even induce a temporary increase in fertility, possibly due to the flushing of the tubes. However, this is not guaranteed, and the primary purpose of HSG is diagnostic.

As for the notion that tubal blockages are more common in younger populations, it is true that certain conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or endometriosis, can lead to blockages and are more prevalent in younger women. However, blockages can occur at any age and are not exclusively linked to younger women.
In summary, considering your desire to conceive and the time that has passed since you began trying, it would be wise to discuss the possibility of HSG with your healthcare provider. This procedure can help identify any anatomical issues that may be affecting your fertility. If the results indicate that your tubes are open and functioning, you can then explore other fertility options or continue trying naturally with a better understanding of your reproductive health.

Additionally, it may be beneficial to have a thorough evaluation of both partners, as male fertility factors can also play a significant role in conception. If you and your husband are both healthy and there are no anatomical issues, you may still have a good chance of conceiving naturally. If you have further concerns or if conception does not occur in the coming months, consulting a fertility specialist may provide additional insights and options tailored to your specific situation.

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