Surgical fertility treatment 

What are surgical fertility treatments? 

Some fertility concerns are best treated with surgery. Surgical procedures are often able to address physical problems that make it harder to get pregnant or stay pregnant. These treatments are done under anesthesia and are designed to improve fertility by improving conditions inside the uterus or pelvis. 

Whom can fertility surgery help? 

Your care team may recommend surgical treatment when:

  • Growths or scar tissue inside the uterus affect pregnancy
  • Endometriosis causes pain or fertility problems
  • Fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged
  • Ovarian cysts or fibroids interfere with normal function 

What to expect with fertility surgery 

Two common surgical treatments for fertility include: 

Hysteroscopy

  • Treats problems inside the uterus
  • Used to remove polyps, fibroids or scar tissue
  • Performed through the cervix, without incisions (cuts in the skin)
  • Usually a same-day procedure with quick recovery 

Laparoscopy

  • A minimally invasive surgery that treats problems outside the uterus
  • Used to treat endometriosis, fibroids, cysts or blocked fallopian tubes
  • Done through small incisions in the abdomen
  • Usually a same-day procedure followed by return to normal activities within one to two weeks 

Both procedures are carefully planned to treat the problem while protecting fertility. Both hysteroscopy and laparoscopy may be used earlier in your fertility journey to diagnose fertility issues.

What are the risks and side effects of fertility surgery? 

Surgical treatments are common and generally safe. Possible risks include:

  • Temporary pain or soreness
  • Infection or bleeding (uncommon)

They may have a short recovery period, depending on the procedure. Your surgeon will review the risks and explain the recovery process with you ahead of time. 

What is the success rate for fertility surgery? 

  • Success depends on the type and severity of the condition being treated.
  • Surgery can improve fertility by repairing damage in or around the uterus.
  • Some patients conceive naturally after surgery.
  • Some patients have surgery with IUI or IVF.