Do you want to know the cost of the HSG test in Ghana? When a doctor suspects that a woman’s infertility is due to a blocked Fallopian tube, the woman will for an HSG test. Continue reading to learn more about it.
What is HSG, and why should I care?
Hysterosalpingogram is the full meaning of HSG. HSG (Hysterosalpingogram ) is a technique used to determine whether the uterus and/or Fallopian tubes are blocked. Fallopian tube patency may be determined via an x-ray study. An injection of a dye would be made. Procedure: A tiny tube is used to introduce dye into the female reproductive system.
One on each side of the uterus, the fallopian tubes are two narrow tubes that assist guide the developed egg to the uterus from the ovaries. A blocked fallopian tube, also known as tubal factor infertility, occurs when a blockage stops the egg from migrating down the tube. Up to 30% of women who are unable to conceive are suffering from this, whether on one or both sides.
HSG test is a kind of x-ray that may be used to determine a woman’s fertility. A half-hour or less is all it takes for an outpatient operation. Radiation is used to inject an iodine-based dye into the cervix and take X-rays of it. The fallopian tubes and uterine shape may both be assessed using these x-rays.
How much does an HSG test in Ghana cost?
The cost of an HSG test in Ghana is between GHC 550 and GHC 1,000 cedis, according to the labs I’ve contacted. About GHC 900 cedis goes a long way in Kumasi for an HSG test.
Diagnosis and treatment
Photo credit: pved.org
A specialist X-ray called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is used to identify blocked tubes. Every couple who is unable to conceive is required to have an HSG as one of the most common reproductive tests. Using a little catheter, a dye is injected into the cervix. X-rays of the pelvic region are then obtained once the dye has been applied.
A healthy uterus and fallopian tubes allow the dye to go to the ovaries, where it will then leak out into the pelvic cavity. You may have a blocked fallopian tube if the dye does not pass through the tubes.
Blocked Fallopian Tube Treatment
You may be able to become pregnant on your own if you have one open tube and are in otherwise good condition. Fertility medicines may be prescribed by your doctor to help you conceive on the side with the open tube. It’s not a possibility if both tubes are obstructed, though.
Open clogged tubes and remove scar tissue via laparoscopic surgery in certain circumstances. Unfortunately, this therapy isn’t always successful. How old you are (the younger, the better), the severity and location of the blockage and the source of the obstruction all affect your chances of success. It is possible to get pregnant following surgery if just a few adhesions remain between the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.
Side Effect
Yes, there is, though it’s just moderate, is only caused by the contrast media being injected. In addition, the inquiry on average takes roughly 15 minutes. If accessing the cervix proves difficult, the procedure may need to be prolonged. Additionally, women who are sensitive to the contrast dye may have an allergic response.
If done properly, there is no discomfort (some labs perform painless HSG). If the speculum is warmed, highly lubricated, and withdrawn soon after inserting the insufflator and injecting very slowly, it is far more acceptable (less painful) than if the speculum is left in place.
Nobody has said they couldn’t continue or that it was intolerable in my experience as a clinician who has seen several HSG test procedures done. Pre-treatment with ibuprofen should be done by doctors before the surgery.
Risks that may arise
In fewer than 1% of instances, an infection may develop. If you’ve previously had an infection or are at risk for pelvic inflammatory disease, you’re more likely to experience this (PID). After the test, if you notice a rise in your temperature or discomfort, contact your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for the operation as an additional precaution if you have had PID, a sexually transmitted illness, or abdominal surgery (such as an appendectomy).
Fevers may also occur before, during, or after the examination. Tell your doctor if you become dizzy following the exam. It’s possible that laying down until you’re less dizzy is the best course of action for you.
Iodine allergy is an uncommon but possibly life-threatening side effect. Before the test, notify your doctor if you are allergic to iodine or shellfish. Tell your doctor if you have any discomfort or edema after the procedure.
Safety concern of HSG test
When you get an x-ray, the technician will usually start by covering your pelvic region. In an HSG, x-rays of the pelvis are taken. You may rest easy knowing that an HSG uses relatively little radiation. Even if you get pregnant later in the cycle, it has not been proven to have any negative impacts.
An HSG, on the other hand, should not be performed when pregnant. The doctor should know whether you’re pregnant before you take the test.
Before going for an HSG test
Prior to ovulation, an HSG should be performed. To minimize the danger of getting the test while pregnant, you should do this. On the first day of your period, your fertility clinic or doctor will tell you to phone the radiology institution to make an appointment for the test.
In order to avoid general anesthesia, the HSG is conducted while the patient is awake. Fasting the day or night before is not necessary. An hour before your HSG, your doctor may recommend taking a painkiller like ibuprofen. This may alleviate some of the pain associated with the test. Aside from that, some physicians use antibiotics as a preventative measure.