Post-Hysterosalpingography: Key Questions and Concerns Addressed

After a hysterosalpingography (HSG)

Hello Dr.
Lin, I just completed a hysterosalpingography yesterday and would like to ask you a few questions:
1.
How many days after the procedure can I resume sexual intercourse?
2.
I arranged for the examination on short notice, so I only started taking antibiotics on the same day.
Does this increase the risk of infection, especially since I have some discharge?
3.
During the procedure, there were some difficulties.
Is the angle of injection of the contrast agent related to whether the uterus is anteverted or retroverted?
4.
Lastly, I would like to know if the purpose of taking another X-ray 30 minutes after the procedure is to check if the contrast agent has been expelled normally? Thank you very much.

Xiao C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/02

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

You should ask your treating physician these questions.
Different timing in the cycle and various techniques (such as whether there is resistance during injection or if there is a cervical clamp) can lead to different responses.

Reply Date: 2015/12/02

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your recent hysterosalpingography (HSG) procedure. I will address each of your concerns in detail.

1. When can I resume sexual activity after the HSG?
After undergoing an HSG, it is generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before resuming sexual intercourse. This allows your body time to recover from the procedure and reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the reproductive tract, which could lead to infection. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fever, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity.

2. Does starting antibiotics the same day as the procedure increase the risk of infection?
Starting antibiotics on the same day as your HSG should not inherently increase your risk of infection. In fact, taking antibiotics as a precautionary measure can help reduce the risk of post-procedural infections, especially if there are any concerns about potential contamination during the procedure. The presence of some discharge after the procedure is common and may not necessarily indicate an infection. However, if you notice an increase in unusual discharge, a foul odor, or any other concerning symptoms, please reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

3. Does the angle of injection during the procedure relate to the position of the uterus?
Yes, the angle of injection during an HSG can be influenced by the position of the uterus, whether it is anteverted (tilted forward) or retroverted (tilted backward). The healthcare provider performing the procedure will adjust the angle of the catheter and the injection of the contrast material accordingly to ensure proper visualization of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. If there were any difficulties during the injection, it could be related to the anatomical position of your uterus, which is not uncommon.

4. What is the purpose of taking an X-ray 30 minutes after the procedure?
The follow-up X-ray taken 30 minutes after the HSG is primarily to assess the passage of the contrast dye through the fallopian tubes. This imaging helps determine whether the tubes are open (patent) or blocked. If the dye flows freely through the tubes and spills into the abdominal cavity, it indicates that the tubes are patent. Conversely, if there is no flow, it may suggest a blockage that could require further investigation or intervention.

In summary, your questions reflect common concerns following an HSG. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding recovery and to report any unusual symptoms promptly. If you have further questions or need clarification on any points, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and good health.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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