Surgical Evaluation of Infertility

A surgical evaluation of infertility can provide critical information to our doctors

Our Newport Beach fertility clinic uses the latest fertility testing options to detect the roadblocks on the path to parenthood. Blood tests, ultrasounds and physical exams provide vital details. This information helps Dr. Robert Anderson and Dr. Don Royster develop individualized treatment plans that produce successful outcomes. In some cases, our doctors will decide to use a surgical evaluation of infertility to obtain an accurate picture of a patient’s situation.

A review of basic fertility testing

Infertility can occur for a variety of reasons, so pinpointing the exact cause is crucial. As part of a routine fertility evaluation, your Newport Beach fertility doctor will order blood tests to check hormones. He will also perform an ultrasound to view the ovaries and uterus. Depending on the results, we may recommend a surgical evaluation of infertility like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.

Could fertility surgery be the next step?

Minimally invasive, outpatient surgical procedures like laparoscopy or hysteroscopy can confirm the presence of certain issues. These include endometriosis, scar tissue, blockages, polyps, a uterine septum and certain fibroids.

Such minimally invasive procedures offer less downtime and a faster recovery than traditional surgical methods. We often recommend surgical evaluation of infertility for patients experiencing the following issues.

  • Irregular bleeding
  • Painful intercourse
  • Ongoing pelvic pain
  • Abnormal physical exam, ultrasound or HSG
  • History of pelvic infection and/or abdominal surgery
  • History of IVF failure, even with quality embryos

What are the different types of surgical evaluation of infertility?

During a laparoscopy, your physician will make two to three incisions below your belly button. He will then place a small camera inside to view the pelvic organs. During the procedure, your doctor can look for problem areas. Additionally, he can also biopsy tissue if needed.

If the laparoscopy reveals endometriosis or scar tissue, your doctor can provide the necessary treatment at that time, avoiding an additional surgery. After surgery, you will need a brief stay in the recovery room before resting at home for 24 to 48 hours.

A hysteroscopy also uses a thin camera. However, the doctor inserts the device through the cervix and into the uterus. As a result, no incisions are needed. To achieve a clearer view of the uterus, your physician will also inject a bit of fluid into the area.

Like laparoscopy, the doctor can remove polyps and scar tissue as well as correct a uterine septum during the hysteroscopy. Because this procedure uses IV sedation instead of the general anesthesia used in a laparoscopy, patients generally return to normal activities in a day or so.

Choose the path that leads to success

At the Southern California Center for Reproductive Medicine, our goal is to help individuals and couples build the families of their dreams. We work hard to resolve infertility with specialized fertility testing and personalized care. Contact our Newport Beach fertility clinic for an appointment.