The HSG Test: How to Prepare and What to Expect for Your Hysterosalpingogram

If your doctor has recommended an HSG (hysterosalpingogram), you may be feeling uncertain about what to expect.

How does an HSG work? Will it be painful? What might the results mean for your fertility journey? How can you best prepare to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible?

In this episode of the Baby or Bust Fertility Podcast, Dr. Lora Shahine goes into the details of the HSG test, a diagnostic tool commonly used to evaluate the health of the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. 

She explains the purpose of the procedure, what happens during the test, and why it’s an essential step for many people exploring their fertility options. Dr. Shahine also provides insight into common concerns like pain and anxiety, shares practical tips to help you prepare, and makes suggestions for self-care after the procedure. She’ll also help you understand the results.

In this episode you’ll hear:

[1:29] Understanding HSG: what & why

[5:03] HSG procedure explained

[10:21] Complications and precautions

[12:16] Preparing for HSG

[13:38] Post-procedure insight & tips

[17:07] Closing thoughts and additional resources

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Lora Shahine, MD

Dr. Lora Shahine, reproductive endocrinologist at Pacific NW Fertility and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, completed her residency in OBGYN at the University of California in San Francisco and fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Stanford University. She is dedicated to educating and advocating for increased awareness of infertility, miscarriage, and the impact on environmental toxins on health through an active social media presence, teaching, clinical research, and authoring multiple blogs and books including best selling, ‘Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss.’

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