What is salpingography?
A salpingogram is an imaging test used to evaluate the health of the female reproductive system. This test is usually done in women who are infertile or have irregular menstruation and endometriosis. During the procedure, the doctor injects a special dye into the uterus and then uses X-rays or ultrasound to see how the dye moves through the fallopian tubes. This can help determine if there is a problem such as a blocked fallopian tube.
Why is salpingography necessary?
Salpingography can detect blockage of the fallopian tubes, a common cause of infertility. The risk of fallopian tube blockage increases when there is damage to the fallopian tubes or when there is an infection in the reproductive tract. If blockage in the fallopian tubes is left untreated, a woman may have difficulty conceiving or be unable to become pregnant.
Additionally, a salpingogram can help determine whether endometriosis symptoms are caused by a blocked fallopian tube. This exam can also detect other problems, such as malformed fallopian tubes, hydrosalpinx, etc.
How is salpingography performed?
Before performing a salpingogram, your doctor will ask you to empty your bladder. The patient then needs to lie down on the exam table so the doctor can inject the dye through the vagina. The dye may cause some discomfort, but it will mostly pass out of the body on its own within a few hours.
A salpingogram usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. During the exam, your doctor will use an X-ray or ultrasound machine to determine how well the dye is flowing within the fallopian tubes. This procedure may sometimes cause mild pain or discomfort, but this can usually be relieved with oral analgesics.
Risks and results of salpingography
Although salpingography is a relatively simple test, there are sometimes risks, such as infection or allergic reactions. Before the test, patients should tell their doctor about any allergies and follow their doctor\’s instructions.
Regarding the results of fallopian tube angiography, doctors will determine whether there are problems such as fallopian tube blockage based on the flow of dye in the fallopian tubes. Based on the examination results, doctors will formulate corresponding treatment plans to help patients solve problems such as infertility.
Summary
Salpingography is a very important imaging test used to evaluate the health of the female reproductive system. It can detect the cause of infertility and provide doctors with guidance on how to restore fertility. Although there are some risks with salpingography, this test is safe when performed in the right medical setting. If you\’re at risk for infertility, or have problems like irregular periods and endometriosis, it\’s worth talking to your doctor about salpingography.
