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Surgery remains an important step in the treatment of
infertility, particularly when the uterus
is abnormally shaped, fibroids or polyps are present, or there is
internal  scarring.
Surgery can also be effective in reversing
tubal ligation ( reopening " tied " tubes ).
Whether or not tubal
reversal is possible depends upon many factors including patient age
and how the tubes were " tied. " Not every surgery is reversible,
but many are and acceptable pregnancy rates can occur. Tubal reversals
in females over 37 years of age are rarely effective; therefore, IVF
is usually recommended.
IVF has replaced many surgical treatments for infertility.
For instance, although elaborate surgeries were devised to repair fallopian
tubes damaged by infection, they are rarely done today. This is because
the chance for pregnancy with one IVF
cycle is higher than the chances after tubal surgery.
Endometriosis is another
condition where IVF may be a better choice than surgery. Endometriosis
is a common condition in which the type of tissue that lines the inside
of the uterus implants outside the uterus in the pelvic area. It can cause
pain and always seems to lower fertility.
Surgery may alleviate pain caused by endometriosis,
but surgery for endometriosis rarely improves fertility. Women with the
mildest degree of endometriosis can remain infertile when all the visible
implants ( endometrial tissue ) have been removed. This fact is not widely
accepted by many obstetrician / gynecologists and patients with endometriosis;
consequently, patients should see a reproductive specialist as soon as
diagnosed with endometriosis.
Surgery usually improves the chances for pregnancy if
the uterus is deformed
or if fibroids or polyps are present. Most surgeries can be performed
laparoscopically reducing the potential
for scarring and decreasing recovery time. When the uterus is severally
diseased or absent, a surrogate can carry the pregnancy to term.
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Phone
800-515-6637 or 757-446-7100