Exam Explanation

If you are having trouble getting pregnant or have had pregnancy problems, such as multiple miscarriages, your doctor may order this test to help diagnose the cause of infertility. This X-ray test looks at the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

During this procedure, a dye is put through a thin catheter which goes through the vagina and into the uterus. The dye flows into the fallopian tubes. X-ray pictures are taken as the dye passes through the uterus and fallopian tubes. These pictures can show problems such as blocked or injured fallopian tubes, polyps, fibroids, adhesions or a foreign object in the uterus. Some physicians order this test to determine if Essure® and IUD devices are functioning properly and placed correctly.

Exam Preparation

You should inform your doctor or technologist of any medications being taken and if you have any allergies, especially to iodinated contrast materials. You must inform the doctor if you are or might be pregnant. The exam is best performed between days seven and ten of your cycle. This procedure should not be performed if you have an active inflammatory condition.

During the Exam

The procedure is like a gynecological exam. You will be asked to remove your clothes below the waist and change into a gown. You may wish to wear a two-piece outfit that day. You will be asked to empty your bladder. You will lie on your back on the exam table. A speculum is inserted into the vagina. The cervix is then cleansed, and a catheter is inserted into the cervix. The speculum is removed and the patient is carefully positioned underneath the fluoroscopy camera. The contrast material then begins to fill the uterine cavity, fallopian tubes and peritoneal cavity through the catheter and fluoroscopic images are taken. This test usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.