I’ve just had an HSG test today and wanted to post about it here in case it’s helpful to someone in the future.
I went to the pharmacy ahead of the test, discussed my needs with the pharmacist and bought the most powerful over the counter painkillers I could. I took ibuprofen along with paracetamol and codeine this morning an hour before my appointment, which ended up being about an hour an half before the test itself.
I was extremely anxious going into the test as I’d read some negative experiences online. However the staff at the hospital could not have been kinder and more reassuring. The test itself was over very quickly and a bit uncomfortable but I wouldn’t really even describe it as painful. I’m now on my way home and planning to work from home for the rest of the day - I’m having a few cramps but they’re barely noticeable, like light period cramps. I’m planning to stay on top of taking pain relief for the rest of the day.
I have previously had two IUDs fitted - the first time I think I took some paracetamol and/or ibuprofen beforehand and the second time I didn’t take anything. Those experiences were far, far more painful than the HSG test after taking the painkillers I’ve described, which I hope might reassure people who are looking for a comparison.
I also wanted to mention my experience because I only have one fallopian tube, having lost the other one to an ectopic pregnancy. I wondered how that might affect the test and I couldn’t find any information online ahead of the test. In my experience it didn’t cause any issues at all.
Good luck to anyone going for the test - take painkillers in advance and don’t worry too much. You’ve got this!