The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM.org) is a great resource for health professionals and patients. The organization provides educational information through their own website, along with their sister website, ReproductiveFacts.org.
At RRC, we’ve come upon some great informational resources for our patients provided by Reproductive Facts and ASRM. These include:
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Fact Sheet
- What is a hysterosalpingogram (HSG)? A hysterosalpingogram or HSG is an x-ray procedure used to see whether the fallopian tubes are patent (open) and if the inside of the uterus (uterine cavity) is normal. HSG is an outpatient procedure that usually takes less than 5 minutes to perform. It is usually done after the menstrual period ends but before ovulation. Learn more about it by downloading the PDF here.
Ovarian Reserve (predicting fertility potential in women)
- A woman’s ability to get pregnant normally decreases as she gets older. In later life, women have fewer eggs, egg quality goes down, and eggs have more abnormalities in their chromosomes (genetic material). All these factors together mean that older women have lower pregnancy rates and higher miscarriage rates. The ability to have a baby decreases in all women as they get older, but the exact age when a woman can no longer conceive varies from woman to woman. In some women, this happens at a younger age than would normally be expected. About one third of couples will have problems getting pregnant when the female partner is age 35 or older. There are several tests that can help show a woman’s fertility potential, also called ovarian reserve. Learn more about Ovarian Reserve by downloading the PDF here.
ART: Step-by-Step Guide
- Every cycle of ART involves multiple steps, and each occurs at a specific time during a four to six-week period. The following is an overview of the IVF procedure.
Saline Infusion Sonohysterogram (SHG)
- What is saline infusion sonohysterogram (SHG)? Saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS or SHG) is a procedure to evaluate the uterus and the shape of the uterine cavity. SHG uses ultrasound and sterile fluid to show the uterus and endometrial (uterine lining) cavity. The ovaries are also seen at the time of SHG. The purpose is to detect any abnormalities. Learn more about SHG by downloading the PDF here.