Pelvic adhesions might be responsible for your fertility issues
Our New Braunfels fertility doctor knows that scar tissue in the pelvis, also known as pelvic adhesions, can make it significantly harder to conceive. These adhesions can distort the fallopian tubes, making them unable to function normally.
The fallopian tube is the structure that picks up the egg after ovulation and the place where the sperm and egg meet. If the sperm and egg join normally, the resulting embryo continues to the uterus for implantation.
A look at how we diagnose the problem
Your doctor will likely order a dye test of the fallopian tubes called an HSG, or hysterosalpingogram. The results of the test may suggest that you have pelvic adhesions. However, the only way to definitively diagnose adhesions is to look inside the abdomen during surgery. This is most commonly done with a minimally invasive surgery called a laparoscopy.
The causes of pelvic adhesions
There are several causes of adhesions. Our New Braunfels fertility doctor will review your medical history to see if you have an increased risk of adhesions.
- If you have had a ruptured appendix, you are at increased risk.
- You are high-risk if you have had chlamydia, gonorrhea or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Endometriosis, a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, can also increase your risk.
- Women who have had abdominal/pelvic surgeries or bowel surgery are at increased risk of adhesions.
- Sometimes, pelvic adhesions occur for unknown reasons in women with no risk factors.
The treatment of adhesions
Dr. Hudson primarily treats adhesions at the time of laparoscopy. The location and severity of the adhesions will help determine what type of fertility treatment our New Braunfels fertility doctor will recommend after surgery.
Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more about treatments for adhesions.