Do you need a referral for a tubal dye test?

A tubal dye test, also called hysterosalpingography or HSG, uses imaging and contrast material to assess the inside of the uterus and whether the fallopian tubes allow passage. A fertility or gynaecology clinician usually decides whether the test fits your cycle timing and medical history, then sends a request to radiology. The request can include the clinical question, pregnancy status, allergies and relevant previous results. The radiology team uses this information to plan the appointment safely.

Ask your fertility specialist, gynaecologist or family doctor whether they can issue the referral. Before booking, confirm when in the menstrual cycle the test should occur, whether pregnancy must be excluded, and whether any medicine is advised beforehand. Tell the team about contrast reactions, pelvic infection symptoms, heavy bleeding and any chance of pregnancy. Check whether the imaging centre needs the referral before it can offer an appointment.

Contact the requesting clinician before the appointment if you develop fever, increasing pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge or unexpected bleeding. Seek urgent care for severe pain, fainting, breathing difficulty or facial swelling after contrast or any medicine. These symptoms need assessment rather than routine scheduling advice.

Ask who will send the request, which cycle day is appropriate, what the test can and cannot show, and when results will be explained. Also ask what to do if your period changes or you cannot attend on the planned day.