1. Sonosalpingography vs. Hysterosalpingography: Key Differences in Fertility Testing The fallopian tube is an important structure in women as it holds the ovaries and uterus and helps in the fertilization process. However, these tubes can become blocked due to scar tissues, infections, or pelvic adhesions and thickness, which might inhibit the fertilization process. For women, such factors are responsible for female reproductive issues in 30-40% of cases and remain undiagnosed until problems with conceiving arise. Tests such as Sonosalpingography (SSG) test and Hysterosalpingography (HSG) test are essential in identifying the blockage present in these tubes. In this post, we examine the key differences existing between these tests and their application in the assessment of fertility. What is Sonosalpingography (SSG)? A sonohysterogram is described as an SSG and is a relatively non-invasive test that employs ultrasound to determine if the fallopian tubes are open. During this test, saline is infused into the endometrial cavity, and then the direction of the saline flowing into the fallopian tubes is measured. This test is best performed after a menstrual cycle, and it is often performed in combination with IUI (Intrauterine Insemination). The reason why SSG is popular is because it is simple, does not involve exposure to radiation, and has mild adverse effects. As the process takes only a few minutes, patients receive results quickly. Furthermore, their prices range from INR 1000-3000, which makes them affordable. What is Hysterosalpingography (HSG)? HSG is a procedure that uses radiographic imaging to provide in-depth images of the uterus and fallopian tubes after a contrast medium is injected into them. HSG is comparatively more invasive than SSG, and radiation is used to obtain images during this procedure. The time taken for the procedure is likely to be longer than SSG, as HSG can be quite painful or uncomfortable to undergo. One upside of HSG is that it is able to thoroughly assess abnormalities in the uterus, which makes it quite useful as a diagnostic tool. SSG v/s HSG: Which one should you choose? For women who are on the lookout for less intrusive methods, SSG is best for first assessing infertility. Considering how fast it is, the discomfort it carries and how cheap it is. SSG is able to gain popularity due to these factors. SSG is not able to provide the level of detail that is obtained using HSG but is still useful in spotting block tubes that fallopian have, which is needed when doing IVF and infertility treatments.

2. Conclusion Sonohysterography test and Hysterosalpingography test serve as crucial modalities in evaluating infertility. First, SSG used to assess the patency of the Fallopian tubes remains the first and simpler step, not requiring invasive interventions even when it is relatively inexpensive, while HSG provides immensely valuable details of the internal uterine and Fallopian tube compartments. Even so, seeking the assistance of a skilled fertility specialist will aid in helping you decide what test to perform based on your requirements. Motherhood Fertility & IVF Center offers reproductive healthcare with advanced facilities for fertility treatments. Book your appointment now.