Hysteroscopy in IVF: Why Is Hysteroscopy Important Before IVF Fertility Treatment?

The journey of IVF is an emotional and exciting one for many couples. It is like a ray of hope in the lives of people who are infertile and have been struggling to conceive naturally. But the process is a complicated one and many things need to come together for the results to be positive. Hysterectomy in IVF is one such crucial step that many people don’t know about. So, in this article, we will tell you all about the connection between hysterectomy and IVF, its significance, and the key role it plays in making in vitro fertilization successful.

What Is Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy, a minor diagnostic procedure, examines the intrauterine cavity and it involves inserting a thin and lighted instrument into your uterus. This instrument is called a hysteroscope and it identifies the contributing factors that are responsible for causing infertility issues. These include fibroids, uterine septum, uterine scarring, and fibroids. The main objective of hysteroscopy in the context of IVF is to examine and improve the conditions of the uterus, making sure it is suitable for embryo implantation.

Types of Hysteroscopy in IVF

Hysteroscopy techniques are of two types, namely, operative hysteroscopy and diagnostic hysteroscopy.

1. Diagnostic hysteroscopy: The focus of diagnostic hysteroscopy is on evaluating the uterine cavity to detect abnormalities like adhesions, structural issues, polyps, etc. that are causing IVF failure. So, the fertility specialist can directly visualize the uterus’s condition.
2. Operative hysteroscopy: Operative hysteroscopy does not just diagnose problems but also fix them. For instance, if polyps or fibroids are present, it will remove them effectively, thus improving the uterine environment and enhancing fertility outcomes.

Benefits of Hysteroscopy Before IVF

Before beginning the IVF treatment, a detailed assessment of the uterus will be a game changer. Hysteroscopy offers a range of benefits and improves the success rate as well as pregnancy outcome. Have a look at the top advantages of hysteroscopy incorporation in IVF:

1.      Enhanced and accurate visualization

As with hysteroscopy, the doctor gets a clear visualization of the uterus, then can see the abnormalities and address them at the earliest. The lighted instrument provides proper pictures of the uterine openings, uterine walls, and all other structures. When the evaluation is correct, the treatment is bound to be effective.

2.      Removal of abnormalities present in the uterus

The big reason why many couples are opting for hysteroscopy is that it does more than reveal the uterine environment. The instrument used can also eliminate uterine polyps, adhesions, etc. So, operative hysteroscopy will rectify those issues and offer a favorable environment for the fertilized egg to attach itself to the uterine lining.

3.      You will get pregnant quickly

It goes beyond saying that hysteroscopy for IVF doubles your chances of welcoming home a baby after going through IVF treatment. So, you won’t have to wait for months for the pregnancy test results to turn positive.

When Do Doctors Recommend Hysteroscopy?

Doctors suggest hysteroscopy in specific situations throughout the in vitro fertilization process. However, the best time to do it is before the commencement of the IVF treatment. Now that we have already explained the role of hysteroscopy in IVF success, here are the primary reasons why hysteroscopy may have been recommended to you:

1.      Abnormal findings in the uterus

When imaging tests like saline infusion sonography reveal abnormal findings, what can be done to further evaluate potential threats? Hysteroscopy is a tried-and-trusted method to make the uterus ready for optimal implantation.

2.      Unexplained infertility

Sometimes, it becomes impossible to predict the reasons behind the failure of IVF. If the doctors are unable to figure out why you are unable to get pregnant, a hysteroscopy will be done to rule out abnormalities that are triggering fertility issues.

3.      Failed attempts at IVF

Have you experienced failure in IVF treatment previously, it is better to consider hysteroscopy to save time and money. It is the most reliable way of finding out why implantation has been difficult so far.

Hysteroscopy Reduces the Number of Abortions

Repeated pregnancy loss can be a heartbreaking experience for anybody. So, it has been the subject of extensive investigation and research. In most cases, the inability to conceive is related to uterine factors. Hysteroscopy has emerged as an essential tool to determine and address uterine complications. Several studies have revealed that as hysteroscopy can eliminate structural abnormalities, scar tissue, and adhesions, it majorly lessens the chances of miscarriages. That’s because it timely corrects the issues, thus renewing the hope of people yearning to hold their baby in their arms.

Cost of Hysteroscopy Before IVF

As far as hysteroscopy IVF cost is concerned, the price depends on various factors like the city where you live, the experience of your fertility specialist, and the fertility clinic you choose. So, book an appointment with a reputed fertility treatment center in your area and the doctor will walk you through the process of hysteroscopy which is usually done before IVF for a successful pregnancy.

Parting Thoughts

We may conclude by saying that hysteroscopy will maximize your chances of getting pregnant through IVF treatment. This minimally invasive procedure will optimize IVF outcomes after assessing your uterine cavity for any functional or structural abnormalities that are hindering implantation.

So, even if the expenses add up, hysteroscopy’s role in IVF is undeniable. Hence, you should opt for the hysteroscopy procedure before IVF if you have experienced failed IVF cycles in the past.

References:

The effect of diagnostic hysteroscopy performed before fresh and frozen-thawed embryo transfer in IVF cycles on reproductive outcomes – PMC (nih.gov)

Is Hysteroscopy Before IVF Associated with an Increased Probability of Live Births in Patients with Normal Transvaginal Scan Findings after Their First Failed IVF Trial? – PMC (nih.gov)

Dr Ritu Agarwal

Dr. Ritu Agarwal is an appreciated IVF expert in Jaipur for IVF therapy, owing to her more than ten years of experience in this field. She is the top IVF specialist in Jaipur who makes every attempt to provide correct counseling and emotional support to patients in order to help them find the ideal solution for becoming parents.