What are the post-procedure precautions and dietary recommendations after hysterosalpingography?

After a hysterosalpingography, precautions include avoiding sexual intercourse, monitoring vaginal bleeding, preventing infection, avoiding strenuous exercise, and promptly informing the doctor of any discomfort. Dietary recommendations include eating light and easily digestible foods, consuming high-quality protein, eating more vitamin-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding irritating foods. Proper care is essential to promote recovery. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fever.

I. Precautions

1. Avoid sexual intercourse: Refrain from sexual activity and tub baths for 2 weeks after the procedure. The imaging process may cause minor trauma to the cervix and fallopian tubes; early sexual activity increases the risk of bacterial infection and may affect reproductive health.

2. Monitor vaginal bleeding: Light vaginal bleeding may occur after the procedure, typically appearing dark red or brown in color and lasting no more than 7 days. If bleeding exceeds normal menstrual flow or persists longer than expected, seek medical evaluation promptly.

3. Prevent infection: Take anti-infective medications as prescribed. Keep the external genital area clean and dry, wash daily with warm water, change underwear frequently, and avoid using irritating cleansers or hygiene products.

4. Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid intense physical activities such as running, jumping rope, or heavy labor for 1–2 weeks after the procedure to prevent increased abdominal pressure, which could lead to increased bleeding or tubal injury. Light walking is acceptable.

5. Report discomfort to your doctor promptly: If you experience severe lower abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, contact your doctor immediately, as these symptoms may indicate infection or other complications.

II. Dietary Recommendations

1. Light and easily digestible foods: In the initial post-procedure period, choose mild, easily digested foods such as rice porridge, noodles, and steamed eggs to reduce gastrointestinal burden. Avoid greasy, raw, or cold foods that may cause digestive discomfort.

2. Supplement with high-quality protein: Consume moderate amounts of high-quality protein sources such as chicken, fish, soy products, and milk to support healing of the reproductive mucosa and enhance immune function.

3. Eat more vitamin-rich foods: Increase intake of fresh vegetables and fruits such as spinach, broccoli, apples, and oranges to provide vitamin C and dietary fiber, promoting recovery and healthy bowel movements.

4. Drink plenty of water: Drink sufficient warm water daily to maintain hydration, which helps eliminate the contrast agent and reduces metabolic strain on the kidneys.

5. Avoid irritating foods: For at least one week after the procedure, avoid spicy, salty, or otherwise irritating foods. Also avoid tobacco and alcohol, as they may stimulate pelvic congestion and worsen bleeding or discomfort.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late. Keep the abdomen warm to prevent chilling, manage stress, stay positive, and attend follow-up appointments as directed by your physician to ensure smooth recovery.