Hysteroscopy
For the successful outcome of IVF, a series of tests are necessary, in order to diagnose and treat in time, any problems in the uterus that may significantly affect the pregnancy rates in women undergoing IVF.
Modern hysteroscopy provides information about the shape and size of the uterine cavity and the appearance of the endometrium, where an embryo implants and a pregnancy develops.
Its main advantage is direct visualisation of the uterine cavity and identification of abnormalities, including polyps, adhesions, fibroids, uterine septa, and endometrial changes. These findings are among the more common uterine abnormalities identified in women undergoing IVF treatment.
Hysteroscopy alsoallows some problems to be diagnosed and treated during the same procedure. When appropriate, an abnormality can be treated immediately using fine instruments passed through the hysteroscope.
Hysteroscopy is generally a safe and straightforward procedure that permits direct diagnosis and, when required, treatment. Correcting relevant uterine abnormalities may improve the chance of successful IVF and reduce miscarriage risk in selected patients.
Hysteroscopy is minimally invasive and usually requires no abdominal incisions. It often takes only a few minutes; discomfort afterwards is usually mild, and most women return to normal activities the same day.
IVF
