Endometrial scratching is a medical procedure that involves the mechanical injury of the endometrial lining of the uterus. The procedure is performed using a small plastic or metal catheter and aims to improve the chances of successful embryo implantation during in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UR Vistahermosa is a fertility clinic in Spain that specialises in advanced assisted reproductive technologies, including endometrial scratching. In this article, we will discuss with their experts when endometrial scratching is necessary and how it works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Endometrial scratching is usually recommended for patients who have experienced repeated IVF failures despite having high-quality embryos. This may indicate that there is an issue with the endometrial lining, which is preventing the embryos from implanting successfully. The procedure is also recommended for patients with a thin endometrial lining, as a thicker lining is believed to be more receptive to embryo implantation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Endometrial scratching may also be recommended for patients with endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing inflammation and scarring. Endometriosis<\/a> can interfere with fertility by causing damage to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Endometrial scratching may help to reduce inflammation and improve the chances of successful embryo implantation in patients with endometriosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Endometrial scratching is believed to work by triggering a healing response in the endometrial lining, which may make it more receptive to embryo implantation. The procedure involves the mechanical injury of the endometrial lining using a small catheter. This injury triggers a local inflammatory response, increasing blood flow and encouraging new cells in the endometrial lining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Endometrial scratching is typically performed during the menstrual cycle, a few days before the start of ovulation. The procedure is performed in a similar way to a cervical smear test, and it only takes a few minutes to complete. Patients may experience mild cramping or discomfort during the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After the procedure, patients may be prescribed medication to help support the growth of the endometrial lining. This may include estrogen or progesterone supplements, depending on the patient’s needs. Patients may also be advised to rest for a few days after the procedure to allow the endometrial lining to heal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like any medical procedure, endometrial scratching carries some risks and benefits. The main benefit of endometrial scratching is that it may improve the chances of successful embryo implantation in patients undergoing IVF treatment. Studies have shown that endometrial scratching can increase the pregnancy rate by up to 20% in some patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, endometrial scratching does carry some risks. The procedure can cause mild to moderate pain or discomfort, and some patients may experience cramping or spotting afterward. In rare cases, endometrial scratching can cause more serious complications, such as infection or damage to the uterus. Despite these risks, endometrial scratching is generally considered to be a safe and effective procedure. It is a minimally invasive treatment that can be performed in an outpatient setting and has a relatively low risk of complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow does endometrial scratching work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What are the risks and benefits of endometrial scratching?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n