Hysterosalpingography

  After being told that I had low progesterone levels, I was scheduled for an HSG, which was done today, and it was VERY painful! My friend had it done and she said she only had minor discomfort. First the doctor told me that I would feel a small "pinch," which turned out to be an excurtiating sharp pain that persisted throughout that test. What exactly caused that? Then, the dye caused severe cramping, which I was told may happen, but after reading today on the subject, one site said that if you're tubes are blocked, it would cause cramping as well. Unfortunately, I was totally disappointed with the doctor, whom after the x-rays were developed, just said "looks normal to me." I thought I would be able to watch the monitor during the procedure, but I wasn't allowed, and was hoping to see the x-rays, but I didn't. I assume I will see them at my Gyns office.
  Also, since I have low progesterone levels, does that mean that the sperm and egg could have met, but then were shedded during my period due to the uterus lining not being prepared to hold it? And could this be the reason why my period has been late 5 days and up to two weeks on one occassion in the last 6 months? When normally I am on time.
  Thank You
Dear Sharon:
When one begins an HSG, the cervix is pinched with a tenanculum to hold it in place while the catheter through which the dye is delivered is placed through the cervix. Cramps are caused by the dye distending the uterus and tubes. A normal study means the uterus and fallopian tubes showed no abnormalities and this is usually only shared when the radiologist is confident that the study looks good.
Share your observations of the radiologists "bedside manner" with your physician. Doctors can only learn of their colleagues professionalism by being a patient or by being told by patients.
A progesterone test is a screen to assess whether there is hormone to prepare the lining of the uterus. It tells you nothing about what happens to a given sperm and egg and it in itself does not explain menstrual cycle patterns. Luteal phase defect can be associated with inability to create a suitable environment to support a pregnancy and menstrual cycles may be short. Equally, a single progesterone level, especially if not well timed in a given cycle, can be very misleading.
Keywrods: HSG; progesterone level
This information is provided for education purposes and is not a medical ocnsultation. If you have specifci questions, please contact your physician.