What Are the Risks and Complications of HSG?
Risks and Complications of HSG
HSG is considered a very safe procedure. However, there is a set of recognized complications, some serious, which occur less than 1% of the time.
. Infection – The most common serious problem with HSG is pelvic infection. This usually occurs when a woman has had previous tubal disease (such as a past infection of chlamydia). In rare cases, infection can damage the fallopian tubes or make it necessary to remove them. A woman should call her doctor if she experiences increasing pain or a fever within 1-2 days of the HSG.
. Fainting – Rarely, the woman may get light-headed during or shortly after the procedure.
. Radiation Exposure – Radiation exposure from an HSG is very low, less than with a kidney or bowel study. This exposure has not been shown to cause harm, even if a woman conceives later the same month. The HSG should not be done if pregnancy is suspected.
. Iodine Allergy – Rarely, a woman may have an allergy to the iodine contrast used in HSG. A woman should inform her doctor if she is allergic to iodine, intravenous contrast dyes, or seafood. Women who are allergic to iodine should have the HSG procedure performed without an iodine-containing contrast solution. If a woman experiences a rash, itching, or swelling after the procedure, she should contact her doctor.
. Spotting – Spotting sometimes occurs for 1-2 days after HSG. Unless instructed otherwise, a woman should notify her doctor if she experiences heavy bleeding after HSG.
Source:
. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/hysterosalpingogram-hsg/