A hysteroscopy is an important diagnostic procedure in fertility care. If you have been struggling with fertility, you may want to consider hysteroscopy to diagnose or treat uterine issues that may contribute to infertility. Hysteroscopy is used frequently as part of the IVF process to help improve the success of the procedure, and to look for causes of multiple miscarriages. In this article, you will learn how diagnostic hysteroscopy can benefit your fertility journey, and if it is the right step for you.
What is Hysteroscopy?
Hysteroscopy is an examination of the uterus with a thin lighted tube – hysteroscope, to gauge uterine abnormalities in fertility. Hysteroscopy is used by doctors to diagnose and treat problems that can hinder a woman’s ability to become pregnant such as fibroids, polyps, or scarring. The hysteroscope is passed through the cervix, allowing visualization of the uterine lining. Hysteroscopy can also be utilized for diagnostic purposes where there could be problems with implantation and miscarriage.
Hysteroscopy and IVF
For women who are undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), hysteroscopy can be critical to increasing the chances of success. Prior to initiating an IVF cycle, it is common practice for doctors to recommend hysteroscopy to ensure the uterus is free of any abnormalities and is healthy enough to support implantation. Hysteroscopy performed in conjunction with IVF can identify issues that may otherwise go undiagnosed in routine ultrasound examinations. These include small amounts of adhesions or abnormal tissue growth, which can negatively impact embryo implantation. Hysteroscopy before IVF is a relatively quick procedure with minimal recovery time, making it an effective way to prepare for IVF.
Can Hysteroscopy Improve Fertility?
Yes, hysteroscopy does enhance fertility by diagnosing and treating problems with the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue. When these problems are resolved, the uterus is able to effectively support a pregnancy. There is evidence that women who experience unexplained infertility or multiple pregnancies benefit from diagnostic hysteroscopy to improve their chances of getting pregnant. If you are struggling to become pregnant or are looking to create an IVF plan, hysteroscopy may be an option for you.
Conclusion
Hysteroscopy is a useful way to both diagnose and treat any uterine abnormalities in fertility. As well as making it easier to become pregnant, hysteroscopy before IVF will help with previous IVF attempts. This method is minimally invasive and can allow many women to conceive. If you have experienced difficulties in becoming pregnant, talk with your doctor if hysteroscopy can help you.
FAQs
- Is hysteroscopy painful?
Hysteroscopy is generally not painful, but you may feel mild discomfort. Your doctor may use local anaesthesia or sedation to make the procedure more comfortable. - How long does it take to recover from a hysteroscopy?
Most women recover within a day or two. You might experience light cramping or spotting, but you can usually return to normal activities quickly. - Can hysteroscopy guarantee pregnancy?
While hysteroscopy can improve your chances of conceiving by treating uterine issues, it does not guarantee pregnancy. It is one of many tools used in fertility care.
