Hysterosalpingographic findings in patients with infertility in South eastern Nigeria

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is still an integral part of gynecological evaluation of infertile couple and its value has not been underestimated in modern gynecological practice, especially in developing countries. The study aims to evaluate the findings at HSG in patients presenting with infertility at the Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Southeastern Nigeria.

A retrospective analysis of 100 consecutive HSG results of patients presenting with infertility was done between January 2005-April 2008. Their clinical records and radiological findings were analyzed for demographic data, and cervical, uterine and tubal, pathology.

The commonest age group was between 25 -34 years. Sixty-five percent presented with secondary infertility while 35% presented with secondary infertility. Hysterosalpingographic findings were abnormal in 80% of patients (primary infertility 20% and secondary infertility 60%). Bilateral tubal blockage and bilateral fimbrial adhesion were the commonest tubal factor abnormalities while intracavitary mass impression and cervical synechia were the commonest findings for uterine and cervical factor abnormalities respectively.

Tubal blockage and tubal factor infertility are still common among infertile couples. This may probably be due to chronic pelvic inflammatory disease or pelvic infection following sexually transmitted infections, mismanaged pregnancies and septic abortions, as most of the patients presented with secondary infertility. Measures to prevent the occurrence of these infections are highlighted.