For many couples facing infertility, the focus often falls on hormones, egg quality, or sperm parameters. But sometimes, the missing piece lies inside the uterus itself. Hysteroscopy for infertility is a game-changing procedure that allows fertility specialists to directly evaluate and treat the uterine environment, improving the chances of conception, whether natural or through IVF.
How Hysteroscopy Identifies Hidden Uterine Issues
Many uterine conditions that can impact fertility often go undetected through routine ultrasounds or imaging tests. These include endometrial polyps, which are benign tissue overgrowths that may interfere with embryo implantation, and submucosal fibroids, which can distort the uterine cavity and reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy. Intrauterine adhesions, scar tissue resulting from infections, surgeries, or previous D&Cs, can also block implantation or disrupt menstrual flow. Another common yet underdiagnosed issue is a uterine septum, a congenital malformation that can increase the risk of miscarriage. Hysteroscopy provides fertility specialists with a clear, direct view of the uterine cavity, allowing them not only to diagnose these conditions with accuracy but also to treat many of them on the spot. Removing polyps, fibroids, or adhesions during the procedure can significantly enhance receptivity, which is crucial for successful embryo implantation and pregnancy.
Impact of Hysteroscopy on IVF Success Rates and Conception
Research has shown that performing a hysteroscopy before IVF or embryo transfer can significantly improve fertility outcomes. It has been associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates, a lower risk of implantation failure, and even better live birth rates, particularly in women with a history of recurrent IVF failure. For those facing unexplained infertility or multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles, hysteroscopy often reveals subtle, yet correctable uterine abnormalities that routine imaging may miss. In many cases, a single, well-timed hysteroscopic procedure can uncover the missing piece of the puzzle, dramatically changing the course of a couple’s fertility journey and increasing their chances of success.
Case Study: From IVF Failure to Pregnancy After Hysteroscopy
Consider this case of a 34-year-old woman who approached our team of experts at Milann. She had experienced 2 failed IVF cycles despite all her lab parameters looking normal. We suggested a hysteroscopy, which revealed a small uterine septum that had gone undiagnosed. It was surgically corrected in an operative hysteroscopy session. Her next IVF cycle resulted in a successful implantation and pregnancy. This is just one of many stories where hysteroscopy for infertility was the turning point.
When Should You Consider Hysteroscopy for Infertility?
You might be a good candidate for hysteroscopy if you’ve had two or more failed IVF or IUI cycles, experienced recurrent miscarriages, or are dealing with irregular periods or unexplained bleeding. It’s also recommended if imaging suggests the presence of fibroids, polyps, or intrauterine adhesions, or if you’re preparing for an embryo transfer and want to ensure the uterine environment is optimal. Even if you haven’t faced previous treatment failures, some advanced fertility centers now advocate for a baseline hysteroscopy before IVF, as it can uncover silent uterine issues that could otherwise go undetected and potentially impact success rates.
Hysteroscopy Evaluation at Milann
At Milann, we believe that success begins with thorough evaluation. Our fertility and gynec-endoscopy teams work together to ensure your uterus is not only ready but also optimised for implantation. If you’ve struggled with infertility or IVF setbacks, schedule a hysteroscopy assessment with us today. It could be the key to unlocking your success.
Reviewed by
Dr. Rubeena Zainab Consultant - Reproductive Medicine, Indiranagar.
