At Midwest Fertility Center, we know that fertility challenges are rarely caused by just one factor. The health of the uterine lining called the endometrium plays a vital role in conception and pregnancy. When scar tissue forms inside the uterus, it can affect implantation and overall fertility, sometimes in subtle ways.
Understanding endometrial scar tissue is an important step toward identifying the right treatment and restoring hope.
What Is Endometrial Scar Tissue?
Endometrial scar tissue, also known as intrauterine adhesions, occurs when fibrous bands form inside the uterine cavity. These adhesions can range from thin, isolated areas of scarring to more extensive tissue that causes sections of the uterus to stick together. In severe cases, this condition may be referred to as Asherman’s syndrome.
Because the endometrium must be healthy and receptive for an embryo to implant, scarring can interfere with fertility even if ovulation and embryos are otherwise normal.
What Causes Endometrial Scar Tissue?
Scar tissue typically forms after the uterine lining has been disrupted and healing is incomplete or complicated by inflammation. Common causes include:
- Dilation and curettage (D&C) following miscarriage, retained pregnancy tissue, or postpartum bleeding
- Uterine surgeries, such as fibroid or polyp removal
- Uterine infections, including endometritis
- Multiple uterine procedures, particularly close together
Not everyone who has undergone these procedures develops scar tissue, but recognizing prior uterine history is an important part of fertility evaluation at Midwest Fertility Center https://mfcfamily.com/.
How Can Endometrial Scar Tissue Affect Fertility?
Endometrial scarring can affect fertility in several ways:
- Implantation challenges if an embryo encounters scarred areas
- Reduced blood flow needed to support early pregnancy
- Altered uterine shape or size, limiting space for pregnancy
- Higher risk of miscarriage, even after implantation occurs
Some patients experience difficulty conceiving, while others may conceive but struggle with recurrent pregnancy loss.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Endometrial scar tissue may not always cause noticeable symptoms. However, some patients may experience:
- Lighter-than-normal or absent menstrual periods
- Pelvic discomfort or cramping with minimal bleeding
- Trouble conceiving despite regular cycles
- Recurrent miscarriages
If your menstrual pattern changed after a uterine procedure or pregnancy event, it’s important to share this with your care team.
How Is Endometrial Scar Tissue Diagnosed?
Standard ultrasounds may not always detect scar tissue. At Midwest Fertility Center, https://mfcfamily.com/, advanced diagnostic tools may be used, including:
- Saline infusion sonogram (SIS or Sono HSG)
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
- Hysteroscopy, which allows direct visualization of the uterine cavity
Hysteroscopy is considered the most accurate method and can often be used for both diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment Options at Midwest Fertility Center
The encouraging news is that endometrial scar tissue is often treatable, especially when identified early.
Treatment may include:
- Minimally invasive hysteroscopic surgery to remove adhesions
- Hormonal support, such as estrogen therapy, to promote endometrial healing
- Temporary uterine supports (balloons or IUDs) to prevent re-scarring
- Follow-up imaging to ensure the uterine cavity has healed properly
Dr. Madanes creates individualized treatment plans focused on restoring uterine health and optimizing fertility outcomes.
A diagnosis of endometrial scar tissue can feel discouraging but many patients go on to have successful pregnancies after treatment. With experienced care, careful monitoring, and a personalized approach, uterine healing is often possible.
At Midwest Fertility Center, https://mfcfamily.com/, we are committed to helping patients understand the why behind fertility challenges and guiding them toward effective, evidence-based solutions.
When to Seek Care
If you’ve experienced changes in your menstrual cycle, pregnancy loss, or unexplained infertility, an evaluation of the uterine cavity may be an important next step.
The care team at Midwest Fertility Center https://mfcfamily.com/ is here to provide answers, compassion, and advanced fertility care every step of the way.
Contact us at 1-630-810-0212 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how uterine health can impact your fertility journey.