Signs Your Fertility Specialist Might Recommend It
What Is Hysteroscopy and Why Does It Matter?
When
fertility treatments fail or miscarriages continue without a clear cause, your fertility specialist might suggest a
hysteroscopy. Understanding what a
hysteroscopy treatment involves and why it's recommended can ease a lot of the anxiety that naturally comes with the unknown.
Hysteroscopy treatment is a
minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the uterus using a small, lighted device called a hysteroscope. This procedure can uncover issues that aren’t visible through standard scans or blood tests, making it a key step in diagnosing and treating hidden
female infertility causes.
At Milann, we understand that
fertility care is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we approach diagnostics like
hysteroscopy with both medical precision and emotional sensitivity. Many women come to us after facing repeated disappointment, whether due to unsuccessful
IVF or IUI cycles, recurrent pregnancy loss, or
unexplained infertility. In these situations,
hysteroscopy can be a turning point, providing both answers and potential solutions. It’s more than a test—it’s often a crucial milestone in your path to parenthood.
When and Why Hysteroscopy Is Recommended
Hysteroscopy treatment is typically recommended when there are signs that a
uterine abnormality may be affecting your ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Fertility specialists don’t suggest this lightly. Rather, they do so when they suspect that the root of the problem might lie within the
uterine cavity—a place that traditional ultrasounds and imaging can’t always adequately assess.
One of the most common reasons for recommending a
hysteroscopy is
recurrent pregnancy loss, particularly when no genetic or hormonal explanation is found. Similarly, women who have had
multiple failed assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, such as
IVF or IUI, are often referred for hysteroscopy to rule out subtle
uterine abnormalities that could interfere with implantation. Even when initial fertility tests appear normal, underlying issues like a
uterine septum,
fibroids, or
endometrial
polyps can only be diagnosed through direct visualization. In these instances,
hysteroscopy becomes not just useful, but necessary.
Women with
abnormal uterine bleeding,
irregular cycles, or
heavy periods may also benefit from this treatment, especially if imaging has raised concerns. If your
ultrasound or
hysterosalpingogram (HSG) has revealed an unusual contour or shadow in the uterus, your doctor may want a clearer picture. That’s where
hysteroscopy excels. Because it provides
real-time, high-resolution visuals of the
endometrial cavity, it offers unmatched accuracy in identifying
uterine abnormalities. And often, the same procedure allows for immediate correction of the problem, minimizing the need for multiple interventions.
Conditions Diagnosed and Treated Through Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy treatment offers a unique advantage: it is both
diagnostic and therapeutic. This means your doctor can not only identify potential problems during the procedure but also treat them on the spot. This efficiency is especially valuable for women who have been trying to conceive for months or even years without understanding the reason behind their struggles.
One of the most common findings during
hysteroscopy is the presence of
fibroids, particularly
submucosal fibroids that protrude into the
uterine cavity. These can distort the shape of the uterus, interfere with
embryo implantation, and even lead to early pregnancy loss.
Endometrial polyps, another frequent discovery, are small, benign growths on the uterine lining that can also reduce fertility potential. Both conditions are often missed in basic imaging tests but can be easily removed during a
hysteroscopy.
Another key condition identified through
hysteroscopy is
Asherman’s syndrome, which involves the formation of
scar tissue or adhesions within the uterus. These adhesions can be caused by previous surgeries, infections, or traumatic miscarriages. They often go undetected until a woman experiences
irregular periods,
failed IVF attempts, or
repeated miscarriages.
Hysteroscopy allows for precise removal of these adhesions, often restoring the
uterine environment necessary for implantation and pregnancy.
A
uterine septum, a
congenital condition where a band of tissue divides the uterus partially or completely, is another major cause of
unexplained infertility and miscarriage. Traditional imaging often misses this
structural issue, but it is visible during
hysteroscopy. By removing the septum, doctors can significantly improve the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
In some cases,
hysteroscopy may also be used to detect signs of
chronic endometritis, an ongoing inflammation or infection of the
uterine lining. A biopsy may be taken during the procedure to confirm the diagnosis. Treating
chronic endometritis with antibiotics or hormonal therapy post-hysteroscopy has shown promising results in improving
fertility outcomes.
Advantages of Early Diagnosis Through Hysteroscopy
One of the most compelling reasons to undergo
hysteroscopy treatment is the opportunity for
early and accurate diagnosis. Many women experience years of
failed fertility treatments, emotional stress, and
financial strain without realizing that a
treatable uterine condition may be at the core of their difficulties. Early use of
hysteroscopy can change this trajectory dramatically.
By identifying and correcting
uterine abnormalities before starting or continuing
fertility treatments like
IVF, women can significantly increase their chances of success. For example, studies have shown that removing
polyps or
fibroids before IVF can improve
implantation rates, reduce
miscarriage risk, and lead to higher
pregnancy rates overall. Similarly, correcting a
uterine septum or clearing
adhesions can transform a previously hostile environment into one that supports
healthy embryo development.
Another major advantage of
hysteroscopy is its
minimally invasive nature. It is usually performed on an
outpatient basis, with most women returning home the same day and resuming normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Discomfort is typically mild, and complications are rare. The combination of
low risk, high diagnostic value, and the potential for
immediate treatment makes
hysteroscopy one of the most efficient tools in
advanced reproductive medicine.
For women who have already undergone multiple
ART cycles without success,
hysteroscopy offers a fresh perspective—a way to uncover
overlooked issues and regain a sense of control over their
fertility journey. Rather than repeating the same cycles and hoping for different results,
hysteroscopy provides a targeted, informed approach that respects both the science and the emotion involved in conception.
Book an Evaluation at Milann
If you are facing
unexplained infertility,
recurrent pregnancy loss, or have been advised to undergo hysteroscopy treatment, Milann is here to guide you. Our
fertility specialists are leaders in the field, equipped with the latest technology and a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional challenges you may be experiencing.
We approach
hysteroscopy not just as a procedure, but as a
partnership in your path to parenthood. From the initial consultation to post-procedure care, we prioritize
transparency,
comfort, and
compassionate support. Whether you're taking your first step toward diagnosis or seeking new answers after a long journey, we are ready to
help you find the clarity and confidence you deserve.
Schedule your personalized evaluation today and let Milann help you discover the next best step in your
fertility journey.
Reviewed by
Dr. Anu Sadashiv B - Consultant - Reproductive Medicine, Obstetric & Gynecologist, Kumarapark.
