Intrauterine adhesion surgery to restore fertility and relieve symptoms
For some women, infertility has a hidden, often symptomless cause: Intrauterine adhesions, also known as Asherman’s syndrome. Dr. David T. Vandermolen, our renowned North Louisiana fertility surgeon, has the expertise to diagnose and treat this condition, which can make it difficult to get pregnant and stay pregnant. For many women, intrauterine adhesion surgery is the key to bringing a baby home.
What are intrauterine adhesions?
Intrauterine adhesions are bands of scar tissue that form inside the uterus. The bands may be either thick or thin, and there may be just one or many. Because the bands of tissue can span from wall to wall within the uterus, they can prevent the womb from expanding normally during pregnancy. They can also cause other fertility problems that make it harder to achieve pregnancy and have a healthy baby.
- Blocked cervix or fallopian tubes, preventing conception
- Disruption of embryo implantation
- Intrauterine growth restriction of the fetus, increasing the risk of premature birth and low birth weight
- Increased chance of miscarriage
- Abnormal attachment of placenta, resulting in pregnancy or childbirth complications
What causes adhesions? Most often, the scar tissue forms after an invasive uterine procedure, such as fibroid-removal surgery or a D&C (dilatation and curettage) procedure. Infections within the uterus, including sexually transmitted infections, can also cause scarring.
Many women are unaware that they may need intrauterine adhesion surgery because they have no symptoms. For some, the first sign is that they are unable to get pregnant or experience repeat miscarriages. In some cases, women notice that their periods are painful, very light or irregular. In rare cases in which scar tissue blocks the cervix, the menstrual flow ceases altogether.
How is intrauterine adhesion surgery done?
The good news is that intrauterine adhesion surgery can often restore a woman’s fertility and provide symptom relief. To perform this procedure, our North Louisiana fertility surgeon uses hysteroscopy, a type of minimally invasive surgery in which a thin, lighted scope is passed through the cervix into the uterus. Dr. Vandermolen can then insert tiny instruments through the scope, allowing him to skillfully remove the scar tissue.
This surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia. To help the uterus heal and prevent the scar tissue from re-forming, the doctor will insert a balloon-like device inside the uterus, which will stay in place for a few weeks. He may also prescribe hormones, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to take during the recovery period.
Most women are ready to return to normal activities within a few days, but should avoid heavy exercise, tampons and sexual intercourse for two weeks, or until healing is complete.
Help for Asherman’s syndrome is here
If you are experiencing infertility, repeat miscarriages or abnormal periods, Dr. Vandermolen can diagnose or rule out Asherman’s syndrome with simple imaging tests. If he recommends intrauterine adhesion surgery, our North Louisiana fertility surgeon can answer all of your questions about the procedure to put your mind at ease.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vandermolen, and get help for fertility challenges and menstrual abnormalities. We are here to support you.