My HSG Experience

My period was four days late. Just when I was waiting for it so I could text Dra. Aguilar. On the second cycle day, I texted Dra. so she could reply when I would have my HSG. She scheduled my HSG on cycle day 8.

Day of HSG
I was nervous and anxious. I got mixed reviews from other women who underwent the same procedure. Some say HSG was very painful, some had mild discomfort, etc.  I just wanted to have the HSG and end my mixed feelings of having the procedure. My friend who had an HSG last year told me to relax. There would be pain, but not unbearable. I told myself, if the simple procedure would put make me a nervous wreck just because of the pain it would elicit, I have no business getting pregnant since giving birth is way more painful than having the HSG.

We weren't able to arrive 30 minutes before the procedure, as Dra. instructed, but luckily, Dra. Aguilar was still attending to several patients so we were able to rest and freshen up first.

I quickly signed two forms before the procedure and off we went to the Radiology room. Hubby was left in the waiting room.

I changed to a hospital gown (open section at the back) and removed clothing from the waist down. Dra. Aguilar and two medical interns prepared for the procedure. At that time, I was calming myself and kept reminding myself that this procedure is way less painful than giving birth. Articles on the internet say an HSG lasts for 15 minutes. I can handle it.

I laid down on the X-ray table while Dra. Aguilar positioned the X-ray machine above my pelvic area. There was a red cross mark light from the machine so my pelvic area could be positioned perfectly. Hands under the head to prevent covering my private parts in case the procedure becomes painful. I breathed in. I breathed out.

I could hear the sounds of speculum, cannula and other medical stuff for the HSG as they were prepared for the procedure. Clink-clink-clink! I tried to think about things other than the HSG so I wouldn't get nervous.

Dra. Aguilar told me to put my feet in the stirrups, as if I'm having a pap smear. 

The HSG procedure lasted for about 5 minutes or so. It was quick! The preparation for the HSG took longer than the procedure itself. There were four x-ray pictures taken. Like my friend said, the pain was bearable. For me, it was just like having a pap smear in five minutes. For those who would be having an HSG, don't worry about the pain. You can handle it!

HSG Result: Both tubes are patent (no blockages)!!!